Judge Delays Sentencing of Ex-Rampart Officer

LOS ANGELES — A judge Tuesday postponed the sentencing of former Los Angeles Police Department Officer Rafael Perez--the key figure in the LAPD’s unfolding corruption scandal--while authorities seek to corroborate his allegations concerning police crimes and misconduct.

Under a plea agreement, Perez is expected to receive a five-year sentence on cocaine theft convictions in exchange for his cooperation. If prosecutors determine that Perez has not told the truth or omitted information about police wrongdoing his deal could fall through and he could be sentenced to 12 years in prison.

Superior Court Judge Robert J. Perry rescheduled Perez’s sentencing for Feb. 25. It is the third time Perez’s sentencing has been postponed.

Winston Kevin McKesson, Perez’s attorney, said his client was disappointed that the sentencing was postponed again but will continue to work with investigators.

As a result of Perez’s information, more than a dozen LAPD officers have been relieved of duty as detectives investigate allegations that officers were involved in improper shootings, planting evidence, false arrests, witness intimidation, beatings, theft, drug dealing and perjury. Also, four men have been released from state custody as a result of convictions being overturned. Others who were no longer in custody or are in prison on other charges have also had convictions overturned.