The Alameda County District Attorney’s office has revealed potential criminal conduct by prosecutors following a federal judge's order to review 35 death penalty cases in the county. The review was prompted by evidence showing deliberate exclusion of Black and Jewish jurors in a 1995 capital murder trial.
Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price announced the discovery of a 'serious pattern of misconduct' involving multiple cases, indicating that some actions may have crossed into criminal territory. The investigation was initiated during the appeal process of death row inmate Ernest Dykes, convicted in the 1993 murder of 9-year-old Lance Clark.
Notes from Dykes's trial surfaced, highlighting discriminatory comments targeting Black and Jewish potential jurors. Shockingly, no Black or Jewish jurors were seated at the trial, raising concerns about fair representation.
As a result of the misconduct, families of victims in the 35 cases are now facing the possibility of released, resentenced, or retried convicts. Settlement negotiations are underway between the district attorney's office, prisoners' lawyers, and the state attorney general's office.
The review process is expected to continue through the end of the year, with potential implications for individuals serving death sentences. Attorney Brian Pomerantz suggested that some may be released as a resolution to the tainted cases.
Meanwhile, District Attorney Price is facing a recall election in November, with the Alameda County prosecutors' union reportedly supporting the recall. Price attributes the union's actions to resistance against her office's efforts to address prosecutorial misconduct and ethical lapses.
The unfolding situation has drawn attention and concern, with Price emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency in the legal system. The impact of the uncovered misconduct on past cases and the justice system as a whole remains to be fully understood.
