The man seeking to unseat L.A. County District Attorney Jackey Lacey in the November election has called on her to file criminal charges against the LAPD officer who was caught on videotape repeatedly punching a man.
Former San Francisco DA George Gascon said the still unidentified officer clearly used excessive force.
“I have a problem with the officer using force," he told us, adding, "I have a problem with the officer witnessing the use of force.”
He said Lacey should charge the officer with assault under color of authority.
Lacey told us she found the video "disturbing," but said she’s reserving judgement of the officer’s actions until there’s a full investigation.
Lacey said Gascon's decision to press for charges so soon after the incident is "a rather reckless and irresponsible call right now," especially considering Gascon is a former prosecutor.
Gascon said if Lacey had prosecuted more cops, the officer would have been more reluctant to engage in such behavior. She said that’s not a fair criticism, arguing that she has prosecuted a number of officers for excessive use of force.
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