13/03/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 14/03/2025 02:55
LOS ANGELES - Today marks 100 days since Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman took office, and we are highlighting key accomplishments that have already made a lasting impact on public safety and the administration of justice.
"Today, March 13, 2025, is my 100th day in office," District Attorney Hochman said. "I want to share some of the progress we've made as we work to restore trust, enhance public safety, and ensure justice is served. I want to further thank the amazing men and women of the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office for their fantastic commitment, experience and dedication to the mission of justice."
Building a Strong Leadership Team
DA Hochman assembled a 40-plus member management team, selecting top legal minds from within the DA's Office. These seasoned prosecutors collectively bring hundreds of years of experience and are now leading the Office's more than 700 deputy district attorneys, and more than 225 investigators and support staff, with integrity and dedication.
Implementing a Balanced Approach to Justice
Upon taking office, DA Hochman rescinded previous special directives that hindered the prosecution of certain crimes, opting instead for a "Hard Middle Approach." This philosophy rejects both extreme decarceration and mass incarceration, focusing on individualized case assessments that consider the defendant's background, the crime committed, and the impact on victims.
Historic Swearing-In Ceremony
DA Hochman was sworn in by former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger in a ceremony attended by key law enforcement and community leaders, including LASD Sheriff Robert Luna, LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell, Supervisor Kathryn Barger, and Councilmember Traci Park.
Taking Action in the Wake of Devastating Wildfires
After wildfires ravaged communities in Pacific Palisades and Altadena-Pasadena, displacing thousands, DA Hochman launched a task force to crack down on crimes ranging from arson to looting to fraudulent claims exploiting the crisis. Nearly three dozen individuals have been charged with crimes related to the wildfires.
Combating Human Trafficking
Under DA Hochman's leadership, Los Angeles County played a major role in a statewide human trafficking crackdown, leading to over 500 arrests - 230 of which took place in LA County. A press conference held along the notorious Figueroa Corridor reinforced the Office's commitment to dismantling human trafficking networks.
Launching a Fentanyl Task Force
With fentanyl the leading cause of death among young adults, DA Hochman formed a dedicated task force to combat its distribution. In a major bust, law enforcement seized 50 pounds of fentanyl - equivalent to over 11 million lethal doses - enough to kill every resident of Los Angeles County.
Rebuilding Partnerships with Law Enforcement
Recognizing the importance of collaboration, DA Hochman met with 45 police chiefsand hundreds of law enforcement officers across the county, reaffirming that the DA's Office is a committed partner in upholding justice.
Implementing Race-Blind Charging Procedures
Los Angeles County is now fully implementing a race-blind charging system, ensuring that initial case reviews are free from implicit or explicit racial bias. This move aligns with state legislation aimed at promoting equity in prosecutorial decision-making.
Freeing the Wrongfully Convicted
Just two weeks into office, DA Hochman acted swiftly to exonerate two factually innocent individuals who had spent 17 years in prison. Thanks to urgent action by his office, these individuals were freed just days before Christmas, reuniting with their families for the first time in nearly two decades.
Reviewing the Menendez Case
Fulfilling a campaign promise, DA Hochman conducted a thorough review of thousands of pages of evidence in the Menendez case, analyzing trial transcripts, prison records, and new evidence. His office has filed comprehensive legal briefs and released an educational video, "The Anatomy of the Menendez Case ", to provide transparency into the case's legal history.
"These first 100 days have been an incredible journey," DA Hochman said. "We've taken significant steps toward a safer, more just Los Angeles County. But this is just the beginning. I look forward to continuing this critical work in the days, months, and years ahead."