Statement from Attorney Samuel Dordulian Regarding D.A. Gascon’s Policy Reversal on Sentencing Enhancements

Statement from Attorney Samuel Dordulian Regarding D.A. Gascon’s Policy Reversal on Sentencing Enhancements

Dec 19, 2020

Dordulian Represents Multiple Victims’ Families Impacted by Gascon’s Special Directives

Today, District Attorney Gascon did an about-face by reversing his policy on sentencing enhancements. This is a small victory for those of us who have been fighting to stop Mr. Gascon’s dangerous policies since the day he took office.

His new directive now permits Deputy DAs to seek sentencing enhancements for hate crimes, child abuse, elder abuse, sexual assault, and sex trafficking. He also agreed to permit other sentencing enhancements in “extraordinary circumstances” where the physical injury inflicted by the criminal is extensive, or where use of a weapon exhibits an extreme threat to human life.

Although District Attorney Gascon’s policy shift does not go far enough (and I will comment further on the subject in a separate piece), I wanted to take this opportunity to thank the many victims’ families that rallied against Mr. Gascon’s dangerous policies and helped bring about this change. Through the tireless work of former Deputy District Attorneys, who chose to immediately put aside their own practices and advocate for victims on a pro-bono-basis, we were able to make a difference. Special thanks also goes out to Deputy D.A. Jon Atami who, under threat of sanctions or termination, came out and spoke up against these illogical policies.

We still have a significant amount of work that must be done in order to ensure Mr. Gascon is serving the victim’s of crime instead of those accused of crime. However, this small step is certainly in the right direction, and it was a direct result of the concerted effort made by victims, their families, advocates, and current and former Deputy District Attorneys. Thank you all for making a difference.

Updated 12.17.2020

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Check also:

• – Office of Former Deputy D.A. Samuel Dordulian Issues Statement Following Baseless Allegations From District Attorney George Gascon’s Team
• – FOX 11: Samuel Dordulian Discusses Outrage Among Crime Victims/Law Enforcement Over District Attorney Gascon’s Special Directives
• – District Attorney George Gascon’s Flip-Flop Indicates a Fundamental Lack of Awareness