Judge Signals Intent to Void Conviction Over LAPD Scandal
A federal magistrate judge on Friday indicated that he would overturn the 1992 drug conviction of a man who alleges that he was framed by ex-Officer Rafael Perez, the central figure in the LAPD’s corruption scandal.
Esaw Booker served five years in prison based on the testimony of Perez and two other officers.
At a hearing in federal court, Deputy Dist. Atty. Richard Rosenthal did not oppose Booker’s petition to throw out the conviction.
“Based on the facts that are known at the current time, we lack confidence in the evidence used to obtain a conviction in this case,” Rosenthal said.
Booker, who is on parole because of the conviction, has maintained his innocence since his arrest. Booker contends that Perez falsely accused him of being involved in a $20 crack cocaine transaction.
Winston Kevin McKesson, who represents Perez, said his client denies engaging in any crimes or misconduct before joining the Rampart station anti-gang unit in 1995.
About a dozen convictions have been overturned since the investigation began. Dozens more are expected to be thrown out as a result of the tainted credibility of Perez and potentially other officers.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
