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Actor Shia LeBeouf spent Saturday, July 8, 2017, in jail in Savannah, Georgia. He was arrested on charges of obstruction, disorderly conduct, and public intoxication. LeBeouf and his beard were taken into custody early Saturday morning and released on $7,000 bond.

According to authorities, LeBeouf approached a person asking for a cigarette while a nearby police officer observed. When he was not given the cigarette, he began using profane language and acting disorderly. The officer approached LeBeouf and asked him to leave, to which LeBeouf refused and became aggressive toward the officer. LeBeouf then fled from the officer to a nearby hotel and was later arrested in the hotel lobby.

This is not LeBeouf’s first criminal conviction. The Transformers star was previously arrested in 2015, also for public intoxication, following a DUI arrest in 2008.

Public intoxication refers to a person appearing in a public setting in an intoxicated state and being boisterous, loud, profane, and/or appearing in an indecent condition, or performing an indecent act. In Georgia, this is charged as a misdemeanor, and Shia can face penalties of up to $1,000, one year in jail, or both.
Keep in mind that simply being drunk in public is not a crime. In California, to be charged with the crime of public intoxication, a person must have displayed:

1. The inability to exercise care for themselves or others
2. Interference with, obstruction of, or prevention of others from using “public ways” (streets, sidewalks, etc.).

In California, the penalties for Penal Code 647 (f), or public intoxication, can include:

• Up to six months in jail
• Informal (summary) probation
• A conviction that will go on your permanent criminal record
• And/or a fine of up to $1,000

If a person is convicted of PC 647 (f) three or more times within a 12-month period, they will be sentenced to a minimum of 90 days in jail. This penalty can often be suspended by the court and swapped for completion a 60-day alcohol treatment program. As an alternative to criminal charges, police officers may instead take the person to an inebriation treatment facility (aka, the “drunk tank”) where the person can be held for up to 72 hours. This is also known as being held in “civil protective custody.”

A conviction of being drunk in public will go on your permanent criminal record and can greatly hurt your chances of future employment opportunities and advancements. If you or someone you know has been convicted on charges of being intoxicated in public, contact us 24 hours a day at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Westwood, and steps away from the Expo/Bundy Station. We have flexible hours and weekend appointments, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Hotel heir Conrad Hilton, Paris Hilton’s younger brother, plead not guilty to auto theft on Thursday, June 29th, 2017. The youngest Hilton was also charged with violating a restraining order against an ex-girlfriend when he attempted to take her father’s 2007 Bentley Continental. The 23-year-old was charged in early May with one felony count of driving or taking a vehicle without consent, two misdemeanor counts of violating a restraining order, and one count of contempt of court.
The incident occurred on May 7th, 2017, when police received a disturbance call in the 2300 block of Jupiter Drive. Officers found Hilton in the stolen Bentley before placing him in handcuffs.
This isn’t Hilton’s first encounter with law enforcement. Last June, he was sentenced to two months behind bars for testing positive for drugs, which violated the terms of his probation. The probation sentence was a result of a meltdown that had occurred last year on a British Airways flight from London to Los Angeles, where he was accused of assaulting two flight attendants and yelling that he was going to kill them, while calling passengers, “peasants”. He was restrained and handcuffed for the remainder of the flight. In a separate case, Hilton plead guilty to evading an arrest which led to a sentence of 90 days in sheriff’s custody.
In the present case, Hilton was released from jail on May 10th and taken to a psychiatric treatment center in Texas. He has since then completed treatment and has taken medication that has been “very, very effective,” according to his attorney, Robert Shapiro. Hilton is due back in court in August, alongside co-defendant William James Bell, who was charged with one felony count of driving or taking a vehicle without consent. Bell could face up to 3 years in prison, while Hilton could face up to 4.
California PC 273.6 makes it a crime to violate the terms of a restraining order. The consequences for violation of a restraining order can vary greatly. Still, in most states violation of a restraining order is charged as a misdemeanor with fines that can reach up to $5,000 and up to a year in jail. Often, penalties of a restraining order depend on whether:

• It was your first violation
• The victim suffered physical harm

If charged as a felony, a person can spend up to three years in California State Prison for violation of a restraining order (one year in county jail for a misdemeanor charge). Additionally, a person may be responsible for victim restitution- including any counseling or therapy that was reasonably incurred by the victim.
California PC 166 Contempt of Court is a broader law that punishes a person for a variety of conduct that falls under the category of disobeying a judge’s orders or acting inappropriately in court. Generally, a person charged with Contempt of Court will be charged with a misdemeanor that is punishable with up to 6 months in jail and a maximum of up to a $1,000 fine.
In Hilton’s situation, he will face more serious penalties because this was an “aggravated” offense, which simply means that other acts involved have elevated the penalties. The fact that Hilton violated a restraining order in addition to stealing a vehicle means that he will face a higher fine for violating PC 166, up to one year in county jail, and/or a potential state prison sentence.

If you or someone you know has been charged with violation of a restraining order, contact us at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Westwood, and steps away from the Expo/Bundy Station. We have flexible hours and weekend appointments, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

In May of 1999, Richard Jones was celebrating his girlfriend’s birthday at his home in Kansas City, Missouri. Meanwhile, another man who shared the same first name, Richard Amos, had stolen a woman’s phone outside of a Walmart in a nearby city. As it turns out, not only did the two share the same first name, but they had an uncanny resemblance to one another. Unfortunately, the victim had incorrectly identified Richard Jones as the perpetrator; Richard Amos’ doppelganger. Despite Jones’ truthful testimony that he had been at his home during the time of the robbery, authorities arrested and convicted the wrong Richard.

Throughout his time in prison, inmates had often mentioned to Jones that there was another prisoner who highly resembled him (Richard Amos). The two men’s lawyers decided to consider the case further, and discovered that the Richard Jones was in fact innocent.
On June 14, 2017, Jones’ lawyer presented the case to the Judge in Johnson County. When shown photos of the two men during the hearing, the victim of the robbery, Tamara Scherer, was unable to determine who of the two was the actual offender and stated, “I am no longer certain I identified the right person at the preliminary hearing and trial.” The charges against Jones were consequently dropped. After serving a 17-year sentence, Jones was finally released from prison on Wednesday, June 14, 2017. The true criminal, Richard Amos, will not be prosecuted because the statute of limitations for the crime has passed.

Robbery is defined as the crime of taking or attempting to take anything of value from someone by force, threat of force, or by inciting fear within that person. Though it varies by state, under California Penal Code Section 211, being convicted of robbery of the first degree can result in a sentence of up to 9 years and/or a fine of up to $10,000. Imprisonment sentences can be enhanced by up to 25 years or life if the robbery involved serious bodily injury, if multiple people were involved in the crime, and/ or the person used or discharged a firearm.

Being falsely convicted of a crime such as in Jones’ case can effectively ruin a person’s life. He will never get back the time he lost while in prison. Additionally, had Jones been convicted in California, under California Penal Code §4900 he would have been eligible to receive $140 per day of wrongful imprisonment throughout the 17 years in which he served time. Unfortunately for Jones, in the state of Kansas where he was convicted, there is no statute that offers compensation for wrongful conviction.

If you or someone you know has been falsely accused of committing the crime of robbery, contact us 24 hours a day at (310) 448-1529 or visit us online to schedule a consultation. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Westwood, and steps away from the Expo/Bundy Station. We have flexible hours and weekend appointments, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Photo: Kansas Department of Corrections

Authorities have charged 22 suspects who have been accused of operating the elaborate cross-border drug trafficking ring linked to the infamous Sinaloa Cartel (which was previously led by Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman). It was discovered that the suspects used homes in the San Gabriel Valley of Southern California as stash houses to store their illicit merchandise. The homes were in areas including Azusa, Baldwin Park, and El Monte, among others. Following the two-year investigation, authorities uncovered 280 pounds of cocaine, 30 pounds of heroin, 300 pounds of meth, and nearly $1.3 million in cash.

The 19 – count indictment is the first high-profile case for the LA Strike Force, a multiagency team including the FBI, Drug Enforcement Agency, Department of Homeland Security, the IRS, and the Azusa Police Department. Those who were taken into custody include the lead defendant, Jeuri Limon Elenes of Azusa, his mother, Maria Limon Elenes (accused of acting as a facilitator), Audrey Rose Urrea of Chula Vista, and Froilan Villarreal of El Monte, whose home was used to stash meth, cocaine, and seven illegal firearms. Of the 22 people charged, 4 have unknown identities and are still at large. They are suspected to be taking refuge in Mexico.

Under California Health and Safety Code Section 11379, it is unlawful to sell, transport, import/export, to give away or otherwise distribute controlled substances. Keep in mind that:

• Transporting, importing, transferring, or selling controlled substances may result in felony sentencing of 3 to 5 years. Transport from one California county to a non-contiguous county can result in an increased sentence of 3 to 9 years of imprisonment.

Under federal law, drug trafficking is prohibited under section 21 U.S.C. § 841. To convict, the federal authorities must prove the following elements of the crime:

• That you manufactured, distributed, or dispensed a controlled substance, or
• Possessed a controlled substance with intent to manufacture, distribute or dispense
• You are suspected of trafficking unusually large amounts of a controlled substance and
• You are suspected of illegal drug distribution across state or national borders, and/or
• You are suspected of drug dealing in what is known as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area

Sentencing follows in accordance with the amount of drugs you possessed at the time of the arrest. For instance, if the weight of the substance amounted to at least 50 grams of pure meth, offenders could face:

• A minimum of 10 years to life in prison (first offense) and /or up to a $10 million dollar fine
• A minimum of 20 years to life in prison for a second offense and/ or up to a $20 million dollar fee
• Life imprisonment without release and/ or a maximum of $20 million dollar fine if you previously had more than two federal drug convictions
• 20 years to life imprisonment if death or serious bodily harm resulted occurs as a result of the use/distribution of the substance

In addition to this, an undocumented person convicted of drug trafficking will face deportation, revocation of any professional state license (teacher, doctor, nurse, attorney, pharmacist, etc.), registration as a drug offender, and disqualification from receiving any state or federal public benefits. This can include educational grants or scholarships.

There are numerous ways in which the sentence can be extended, for instance:

• Being convicted within 1,000 feet of a drug rehab center adds an additional year
•  If you are convicted of selling, transporting or distributing drugs unlawfully across 2 or more counties, a person can be sentenced up to nine years in prison
• If the amount of meth possessed is or exceeds 1 kilogram, can add an additional and consecutive 3-15 years in prison
• If you solicit, hire, encourage, intimidate, or induce a minor to sell or distribute, you can face an additional 9 years in prison

If you or someone you know has been charged with the crime of drug trafficking, contact us 24 hours a day at (310) 448-1529 or visit us online to schedule a consultation. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Westwood, and steps away from the Expo/ Bundy Station. We have flexible hours and weekend appointments, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

On Monday, June 5, 2017, actor and comedian Bill Cosby began trial for allegations of sexual assault. Andrea Constand, who pressed charges more than a year ago, is accusing Cosby of drugging and assaulting her while in his home in 2004. The trial is taking place in Norristown, Pennsylvania.

Several other women have accused Cosby of the same offense, though Constand’s case is the only one to have brought criminal charges. Cosby is being charged with three counts of felony aggravated indecent assault.

According to Constand, she had confided in Cosby about her job-related anxiety, upon which he offered her three blue pills (quaaludes) that would help “take the edge off”. Within 20-30 minutes after taking the pills, Constand reported she was incoherent and unable to stop Cosby from assaulting her.

Cosby reports that any sexual encounter between the two was consensual and that Constand never said “no”. Constand told her mother a year after he alleged incident, stating that she was too afraid to report it before. Later, Constand sued Cosby, alongside 13 “Jane Does” that also accused Cosby of sexual assault. The case was later settled for an undisclosed amount.

Assistant District Attorney Kristen Feden cited Cosby’s past testimony where he admitted to drugging and having sexual contact with Constand. Yet Cosby’s defense lawyer Brian McGonagle says that Constand’s account to the police is inconsistent. If Cosby is found guilty, the 72-year-old will spend 10 years in prison.

In Pennsylvania, aggravated indecent assault is defined as engaging in penetration against the victim under one or more of these circumstances:

• The alleged victim does not consent
• Assault is committed by force or threat of forces
• The victim is unconscious
• The victim is significantly impaired, by alcohol or drugs
• The victim suffers from a mental disability which makes them incapable of consent
•  The person is under 13 years old
• The person is under 16 years old and the assaulter is more than four years older.

In California, this would be classified as sexual assault, or sexual battery. Sexual battery, pursuant to California Penal Code Section 242, is the unlawful application of force against another person that results in harmful or offensive contact. More specifically, sexual assault occurs when a person touches the intimate part of another person without that person’s consent or against their will.  It is a lesser included offense in “rape,” because intercourse with someone without their consent includes the act of battery. Sexual assault can occur in many different scenarios, for instance:

• During a medical examination, where the victim has been led to believe the actions of assault are part of the procedure
• While the victim is medically incapacitated or disabled to where they cannot give consent
• By unlawfully restraining the victim

California law makes this offense punishable by state imprisonment for up to 4 years and a fine not exceeding $10,000.

If you or someone you know has been charged with the crime of sexual assault, contact us 24 hours a day at (310) 448-1529 or visit us online to schedule a consultation. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Westwood, and steps away from the Expo/ Bundy Station. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Jose Luis Cota, a former Customs and Border Protection officer, was convicted of three counts of alien smuggling across the border in exchange for money and sexual favors. He admitted to bringing in at least ten people at a price of $15,000 each. According to officials, he was a part of an operation of a small group of smugglers (including husband and wife Miriam Juarez Herrera and Gilberto Aguilar Martinez) who regularly took bribes from non-citizens to illegally enter the country.

As a result, U.S. district Judge Jeffery Miller sentenced Officer Cota to 5 years in prison. Cota was also ordered to hand over 2 cars and over $63,000 in cash that were gained from the operation. Cota has worked as a Border Protection officer for over 15 years and is among the several hundred officers who have participated in the smuggling of illegal immigrants across the U.S.- Mexican border. In fact, it is reported that since 2004 over 200 U.S. officers and agents have been arrested on similar corruption charges.

The operation reportedly began in late 2015, involving Officer Cota, Juarez, and Aguilar. Juarez’s role was to smuggle immigrants into her car, while Cota would wave them through. Aguilar would handle transportation matters for the immigrants after they crossed the border. Cota would also trade sexual favors with Juarez in addition to the monetary gains he received for the operation. Apparently, Cota had also been keeping account of the payments in a ledger, including the payment amounts and the dates they were received. The former officer and U.S. army veteran had a clean record prior – this event being his first offense.

Federal Law makes it a crime to smuggle non-citizens across the United States border. Under section 1324 of Title 18 of the U.S. Code, it is illegal for a person who knowingly or in reckless disregard of the fact that the person lacks prior official authorization to enter or live in the U.S., to bring or attempt to bring that person into the country. Even if you didn’t receive any financial incentive to smuggle the person, you will still be convicted with a crime if found guilty. The penalties for this offense vary. Penalties under section 1324 can include:

• a fine under Title 18 of the U.S. Code
• a prison sentence that can last up to ten years, or
• a combination of the two.

The punishment is elevated based on the number of people smuggled. Also, if a person is injured as a result of the crime, the smuggler can be sentenced up to 20 years in prison, whereas if someone dies as a result of the crime, the person can receive a life sentence.

Of course, repeat offenders will receive a harsher punishment. If it is the person’s third offense (or more) the sentence is increased and will range from 5-15 years. The person may also be ordered to forfeit the vehicle used to execute the crime, as well as any gains (whether it be monetary or in the form of possessions) that were a result of accomplishing the crime.  

If you or someone you know has been charged with the crime of alien smuggling, contact us 24 hours a day at (310) 448-1529 or visit us online to schedule a consultation. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Westwood, and steps away from the Expo/ Bundy Station. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

At 1:08 AM the morning of May 15, 2017, California Highway Patrol Officers chased a motorcyclist speeding in excess of 100 mph on the 210 Freeway. The chase began near Allen Avenue in Pasadena. Officer Elizabeth Kravig recounts that the pursuit continued westbound through La Canada-Flintridge, Montrose, Glendale, and Lakeview Terrace. The motorcyclist finally exited in Sylmar off Maclay Avenue, where the suspect took to escaping on foot from Highway Patrol Officers. The chase lasted about 25 minutes as the suspect was eventually arrested at approximately 1:30 AM, after he fell down a hill.

California Vehicle Code 2800.1 states that you can be charged with the crime of evading a police officer if you willfully attempted to flee from the officer while they were in pursuit of your vehicle. To be charged with this crime, the prosecutor must prove that the suspect:

1. Intended to evade that specific officer
2. The officer’s vehicle was displaying at least one lighted red lamp so that the person can see it (or should have seen it)
3. The officer’s vehicle was sounding the appropriate siren
4. The officer’s vehicle was being driven by a peace officer wearing the appropriate uniform

This is a specific intent crime, meaning the prosecutor has to prove that you willingly fled from the specific officer in pursuit of you. That being said, if it was not clear that your intent was to flee from the officer, the prosecutor will not be able to charge you with this crime.

However, if a person is charged with California Vehicle Code 2800.1, they will be charged with a misdemeanor and can suffer the following consequences:

• Misdemeanor summary probation (alternative to jail; sentence is spent under the supervision of court )
• Up to a year in county jail
• A fine of up to $1,000 and/or
• Vehicle with which you used to evade the officer is impounded for up to 30 days

Additionally, a person can receive demerit points on their driving record that can go as high as 24 points. If a person gets a certain amount of points within a short enough time period, this can result in the revocation of their driver license.

If you or someone you know has been charged of the crime of evading a police officer, contact us 24 hours a day at (310) 448-1529 or visit us online to schedule a consultation. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Westwood, and steps away from the Expo/ Bundy Station. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Video by: KTLA 5 NEWS

Rapper A$AP Rocky (Rakim Mayers) was robbed the night of Tuesday, May 16, 2017, at approximately 11:30 PM. The robbery took place at the celebrity’s Beverly Grove home. Authorities reported that at least $1.5 million in jewelry was stolen and at least one of the robbers was armed. Though Mayers was not home at the time, ASAP Rocky’s sister was present in the home and was held at gunpoint after exiting the home to confront the robbers. She was forced back inside as the suspects made their escape.

The suspects attempted to carry out a safe, but ended up leaving it on the sidewalk near the home. The sister was not injured during the time of the incident.

Several other celebrities have dealt with home invasions in Los Angeles recently, including rapper Nicki Minaj, singer Alanis Morissette, LA Laker Nick Young, actress Emmy Rossum, and A$AP Rocky’s current girlfriend, model Kendall Jenner.

California Robbery Law, PC 211 is defined as taking personal property from someone while they are present or from someone else’s immediate presence, against the person’s will and with the use of force or fear. In California, this is always charged as a felony.

The penalties of robbery are quite serious and are categorized as either first, second, or third degree. A person can be convicted of robbery of the first degree if:

• Robbery occurs against any driver or passenger on a bus, taxi, subway, etc.,
• It takes place in an inhabited structure
• It occurs to a person who has just used the ATM and is still in the vicinity of the ATM.
• Suspect threatens to use a deadly weapon
• A victim or someone else involved in the crime is seriously injured

If caught, the suspects will be convicted of armed robbery of the first degree. In California, first degree armed robbery can carry two different sentences: If the robbery was committed with more than one person and at a home or inhabited building the suspect can be sentenced to 3-9 years in state prison. More specifically, 10-20 years will be added for firing the gun during the robbery, and 25 years to life will be assigned if you cause a person great bodily harm or death with the firearm. Otherwise, the sentence will range anywhere from 3-6 years.

If you or someone you know has been charged with the crime of robbery, contact us at (310) 448-1529 or visit us online to schedule a consultation. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Westwood, and steps away from the Expo/ Bundy Station. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Georgia Firefighter, Ron Herens, was killed on May 1, 2017, and his two companions were hurt while on vacation in Los Angeles.  Suspect Benjamin Seider was driving while under the influence of alcohol when he ran a red light at the intersection of Washington Boulevard and Ocean Avenue in Venice, crashing into Herens’ vehicle. The force propelled Herens from the car and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The other two passengers in Herens’ vehicle suffered serious injuries.

Benjamin Seider has since been charged with three felony counts of vehicular manslaughter including driving while under the influence of alcohol, driving while intoxicated and causing injury, and driving with a 0.08% blood alcohol content and causing injury.

California Penal Code 191.5 (b) states that the crime of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated occurs when:

• A person is driving while intoxicated and engages in some additional negligent behavior while driving, and
• As a result, another person is killed. If charged as a felony, a person who is convicted can face up to 4 years in prison, along with suspension of their driver’s license. The additional negligent behavior does not need to be inherently dangerous, just dangerous under the circumstances, or ordinary negligence. Ordinary negligence means that you did not use reasonable care to prevent reasonably foreseeable harm to someone else.
• In California Vehicle Code (“VC”) 23153 is defined as driving while intoxicated and injuring another person. In order to be convicted of violating VC 23153, the prosecutor must prove that:
• You were driving under the influence,
• You violated another law or drove negligently, and
• Your unlawful act or negligence caused injury to another person.

This can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony. Because Seider is charged with a felony he could face up to 4 years in prison, with an added sentence of up to 6 years if any victims suffered serious bodily injuries (and an additional 1 year sentence for each person that suffers any injury). He could also be charged up to $5,000 in fines, 18 or 30 months of a court approved DUI class, Habitual Traffic Offender status for three years, and a 5 year revocation of his license. Seider may also end up with “strike” on his record if anybody other than himself suffered serious bodily injury.

In California, VC 23152 (b) makes it illegal for a person to drive with a blood alcohol content over 0.08% by weight. In order to convict someone of this crime, the prosecutor must prove that:

• The suspect’s BAC was at 0.08% or higher and
• He/She drove a vehicle at the time they were intoxicated

Seider is facing some serious charges and if he is convicted of all charges, he could face more than 12 years in State prison. If you have been charged with a DUI and/or Vehicular Manslaughter you can contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online for a consultation. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Westwood, and steps away from the Expo/Bundy Station. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Crystal D. Hotlosz, 36, was accused of prostitution and arrested for advertising her services on Backpage.com. According to a Beaver Township Police Department  report Crystal told an undercover police officer she would provide a sex act for $60 and nachos.

Beaver Township police said the suspect met the officer in a Los Gallos Mexican Restaurant parking lot in the area on November 14, 2016. After telling the officer what she was willing to do, she asked for the money and nachos.

It was also reported that Crystal was apparently very adamant about getting the nachos, asking the officer at least four times for them. She was arrested on suspicion of solicitation and taken to the Mahoning County Jail for booking. A man who had driven Crystal to the parking lot of Los Gallos Mexican Restaurant was also taken into custody.

If you have been charged with solicitation and/or prostitution you can contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online for a consultation. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Photo Credit: Beaver Township Police

On September 22, 2016, it was reported by TMZ.com that Brad Pitt is being investigated by the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (“DCFS“) for child abuse. TMZ revealed that Brad Pitt allegedly “got wasted” on a private plane and “went wild, screaming and getting physical with the kids.” Witnesses claimed once the plane landed at an unknown airport around 8 p.m.,  Brad Pitt “continued his rant on the tarmac.” Sourced indicate that an anonymous person reported the incident DCFS.

TMZ went on to say that a source close to Brad Pitt stated, “He takes the matter very seriously and says he did not commit any abuse of his children,” adding, “It’s unfortunate that people involved are continuing to present him in the worst possible light.”

The LAPD or the FBI are not involved in the investigation at this time. However, if DCFS concludes criminal charges need to be filed law enforcement may become involved. Pitt may face charges of child abuse and it could have an affect on the outcome of the “Brangelina” divorce case. Specially when it comes to the child custody and visitation.

If you have been charged with crime contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online for a consultation. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

On September 12, 2016, Ohio lawyer Michael W. Fine pleaded guilty to hypnotizing six women with the intent of getting sexual gratification from them. He has agreed to permanent disbarment last year from the Ohio State Bar. Per the plea deal Fine will be sentenced to 12 years in State Prison.

One of Fine’s legal clients became suspicious of lost time she had experienced and because “she was wet in her vaginal area, that her bra was disheveled” after she left Fine’s office or had conversations with him. The woman approached the Sheffield police department, who initially suggested she find another attorney. Instead the woman recorded her dealings with Fine, including when he placed her in a hypnotic trance.

Per an emergency suspension motion filed by the Lorain County Bar Association, Fine told the client that she would have the “most massive, most incredible, most powerful whole body orgasm in your entire life,” that she was “being made love to by the world’s greatest lover” and not to cancel her next meeting with him.

The female client went back to the police with the recording. She agreed to wear audio and video recording device for her next meeting with Fine. After he hypnotized her again, police raided Fine’s office, that led to Fine’s arrest.

A second woman, who was Fine’s client in a dissolution proceeding, reported a similar experience with him. A family law judge also believes that she may have been one of Fine’s victims.

If you have been charged with crime contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online for a consultation. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Commonly modern technology, such as a Breathalyzer or obtaining a blood sample from the accused, are used to calculate BAC. The purpose of this article is to help the reader understand how to calculate blood alcohol content using only a BAC Table. BAC stands for Blood Alcohol Content and refers to the amount of alcohol within one’s bloodstream. BAC is measured by the amount of grams of alcohol, in 100 grams of blood. Anything over 8 grams of alcohol per 100 grams of blood, is considered legally intoxicated.

Without taking a blood or a breath sample, it’s very difficult to calculate Blood Alcohol Content. Hence, only a best estimates guesses can take place. That’s why police officers who suspect one be under the influence, will use a breathalyzer you to get a valid sample. Without a valid sample, it’s left up to guessing. Calculating BAC is also difficult because there is many variables involved. Some of the most common variables include gender, health issues, medications and weight. The larger a person is the larger their bloodstream is.

As most people know, males can “outdrink” their female counterparts. This is because males are generally larger, but they have more dehydrogenase – the enzyme required to break down alcohol. Another reason is because of blood volume, the larger the blood volume the more diluted alcohol is. So if you are going shot for shot with someone of the opposite sex, in most cases it is a bad idea. Not only are drinking games a bad idea as they result in higher BAC values, but they might lead to a DUI charge.

A DUI is not only dangerous for all of those involved, but also very expensive. The cost of a DUI Lawyer alone is a few thousand dollars, that doesn’t include court fines or fees. Do the math and get yourself aboard the BAC awareness training. If you don’t you are looking at not just risking legal issues, but behavioral and health issues too. Most people think just by having a few drinks they are safe to drive, the math would tell you differently. Don’t leave your BAC up to chance, educate yourself about alcohol and sober up before getting behind the wheel.

This guest post was written by Curtis Boyd, for the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi

On October 13, 2015, former NBA player Lamar Odom, was rushed to a medical facility after being found unresponsive at a brothel in Nevada. It was reported that Odom had taken as many as 10 sexual-performance supplement pills and cocaine.

At a press conference, Sheriff Sharon Wehrly said two employees of the ranch confirmed Lamar Odom’s cocaine usage on Saturday, October 11, but were unsure if it had continued throughout the weekend.

Police said the sexual-performance supplements ingested by Lamar Odom were legal and were obtained from the ranch. Dennis Hof, the owner of the Love Ranch, claimed that the brothel did not offer supplements to its visitors.

Sheriff Wehrly said it was “distinctly possible” that Lamar Odom could face charges of drug possession pending the results of the investigation. She stated that the actions of Love Ranch employees would also be looked into.

The law regarding possession of drugs in Nevada is as follows:

“A person shall not knowingly or intentionally possess a controlled substance, unless the substance was obtained directly from, or pursuant to, a prescription …” (NRS 453.336)

Since cocaine is illegal and can not be prescribed by a doctor, possession of it is a crime. Clearly Lamar Odom had cocaine at one point. This can be proven by the fact that it was found in his system. However, is that enough evidence for Odom to be charged with a crime? Only time will tell.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with drug possession or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Reality TV star Loredana Nesci was found dead in her Redondo Beach, California home on July 22, 2015. She was known as the cop turned lawyer on SundanceTV’s Loredana, Esq. It is alleged that the 47 year old star had an argument with her boyfriend Robert Reagan the night before. At 7:20am on the 22nd the police received an anonymous call stating that something bad happened and that the police need to come to the house immediately. The caller was later identified as Robert Reagan.

Although the autopsy results were not available, forensics evidence pointed to the fact that Loredana Nesci died from stab wounds. Loredana Nesci and Robert Reagan’s son was not at the home when the incident happened.

Nesci was born in Connecticut and joined the LAPD in 1996. Nesci rose to fame with the March 2014,  debut of the show Loredana, Esq. The show aired for six episodes, and it followed the ventures of the former LAPD officer as she tried to navigate the criminal justice system and find the answers to numerous burning questions that people had. Aside from being a legal crusader, she also cultivated a law practice that focused on defending regular people, especially those people that made bad choices and which still were able to find a better path in life.

According to some of the neighbors, the couple did argue often. No one knows what happened on that particular night, but one thing is certain, the beloved reality star passed away in a brutal manner, and many things point towards her boyfriend as being the responsible party.

A few days after the incident, Robert Reagan was charged with murder. It is alleged that he stabbed Nesci multiple times until the reality star passed away.

Based on a press release from the Los Angeles Countey District Attorney’s office, Robert Reagan faces one count of murder with a knife-use allegation. He is being held on more than $1 million bail and he is facing a punishment of 26 years to life in state prison if convicted of murdering Lordana Nesci. His attorney has stated that Mr. Reagen acted In self-defense.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with murder or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Bill Cosby, a captivating and hilarious TV icon, has been one of the most distinguished and well known television icons in recent history. In 2002, President George W. Bush presented Bill Cosby with the Presidential Medial of Freedom for his depiction of African Americans on national television and his renowned dedication to education.

However, things have changed rapidly for Bill Cosby. In light of sexual assault and rape allegations, his career has been quickly damaged most likely beyond repair. By July 11, 2015, a petition to revoke his Presidential Medal of Freedom had already garnered the support of more than 5,500 people. So, what are the ins and outs of this case? And how are they damaging his career?

Cosby’s first recorded allegation was made by Andrea Constand, who saw Cosby as a mentor from when she was on Temple’s women’s basketball team and he was on the track and field team. In 2004, Constand went to visit Cosby to discuss her career, when he presented her with “herbal” pills that according to him, would ease anxiety. He then proceeded to touch her inappropriately, groping her breasts and groin regions.

Andrea Constand was just the first of many more to come forward. A total of thirty six women, ranging from young aspiring actresses, cafe waitresses to old friends, have publicly accused Bill Cosby of inappropriate sexual behavior and assault. Many recall being handed a glass of wine or a drink or pills that would supposedly help with any problems ranging from menstrual cramps to anxiety. After going blurry, they recall waking up completely naked or wearing cloth that was not their own with Cosby lying next to them or standing over them in a robe. Sometimes, Bill Cosby had disappred, and there was money lying on the table. The immense likeness of the stories is astounding and disturbing.

On July 6, 2015, some of Bill Cosby’s deposition documents from the 2005 lawsuit brought by Constand were released. In his testimony Cosby confirms that after giving Constand quaaludes, he engaged in sexual relations with her. However, Cosby dodges the question whether drugs were given to Constand with or without her knowledge. Additionally, Billy Cosby admitted to offering or providing money to accusers in order to be used for their “education”.

The sheer numbers of women stepping forward with detailed accounts of sexual assault by the renowned TV star is astounding. Most of the alleged events took place long ago and the statute of limitations has passed. However, every allegation contributes to the fast and steady demise of Cosby’s legacy. Recent headlines have motivated many institutions with artwork or memorabilia honoring the famous star to consider removing or actually removing them. Recently Disney removed Cosby’s Statue from their Disney World park and there is strong support from civil rights activists to remove his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, our team of expert criminal defense lawyers is dedicated to fighting aggressively for our clients’ rights. To schedule a consultation with a lawyer at our firm, call us at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. Located in Westside Towers in LA, our office is minutes from Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood and steps away from the Expo/Bundy Station. We have flexible hours and offer weekend appointments, and we will visit you in jail for consultation on your case.

CSUN student Desira Crittenden was killed in a car accident allegedly caused by a driver under the influence. The vehicle she was in was struck while going through an intersection in Northridge, California. The driver of the other vehicle was hospitalized in stable condition and arrested for suspicion of DUI.

A total of five people — three females and two males — were initially said to be injured, some critically, according to a desk officer with LAPD’s Valley Traffic Division. Desiree Crittenden was pronounced dead at the scene a short time later.

Friends of Desira Crittenden left a memorial of flowers and candles at the crash site, while others left heartfelt messages on her Facebook page. Those who knew her described Crittenden as a kind-hearted, intelligent and beautiful woman who had a bright future ahead of her. 

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with a DUI or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

On June 12, 2015, the actor John Stamos was stopped by police and was later transported to the hospital for an unspecified condition according to the LA Times. There were multiple calls made to the police about a possible intoxicated driver in the area around Beverly Hill city hall. When the police pulled Mr. John Stamos over it was believed that he was having a medical problem so he was transported to Cedars Sinai by members of the fire department. While there the police determined that John Stamos was intoxicated. The 51 year old actor was on social media the next day thanking all for their efforts.

This case could be more than an embarrassment for the former star of the popular show Full House. He will certainty need the help of an experienced attorney to help him in his defense. A DUI can carry with it a number of punishments besides losing one’s license. If one has prior convictions for a DUI it could possibly lead to a jail sentence. Increased insurance charges can be added to the fines and other expenses that this charge will bring.

In the state of California a DUI is a serious charge because many people have been hurt in the past and quite a few fatal accidents are the result of driving under the influence. If you have been arrested in California for a DUI you will need an experienced defense attorney to make the best argument for your side of the story. A person should not go it alone even if they feel they can’t fight the charge.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with a DUI or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours.

The man arrested for the arson of the unfinished Da Vinci apartments in Los Angeles was denied a reduction in bail. Judge Upinder Kalra ruled in favor of the prosecution, who argued against the reduction on June 11, 2015. The suspect, Dawud Abdulwali, is said to have traveled out of the country a number of times and the prosecutors argued this meant he was a flight risk. His attorney volunteered to turn in his passport but ultimately his request to have the bail decreased was denied.

Mr. Abdulwali’s attorney believes the arson case is based on circumstantial evidence alone. The police have some surveillance tapes showing a man getting out of a taxi on two different occasions slipping into the building and then returning to the cab. There are flames flickering in the second tape they reviewed. However, Abdulwali has no connection to the Da Vinci apartments at all.

The suspect did have a taxi registered in his name at the time of the arson. The city, however, has no record of him having a taxi driver license. The price for the arson could go as high as $ 10 million and fortunately no one was injured. The man charged had no financial stake in the building which may or may not help his defense attorney. However, the prosecutors seem confident about their camera footage evidence.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with arson or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Ryan Jawad, has been accused of the murder of his friend Gage Seal in Temecula. The police found the victim and the accused at a motel after the shooting.  Jawad has had problems with the law in the past and will be tried as an adult. He is also a suspect in a number of burglaries in his neighborhood but the investigation is still pending. Jawed was previously arrested for possession of a stolen revolver. However, there is currently no weapons charge connected to the current charge.

If convicted Jawad could spend the rest of his life in prison. The checkered past he brings to trial may be inadmissible because he was a minor when those incidents happened. Jawad’s father said his son and Seal were very good friends and would often stay at each other’s homes. The motive for the shooting has not been determined yet.

His California defense attorney will do more than that to best serve his client’s interest. This is a heartbreaking case for both families involved, one young man is dead and the other is facing a life changing prison sentence. All possible strategies will be employed by his defense council to prevent a long incarceration.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with murder or any other  crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Stuart Lynn Dunn, who was placed in a mental health facility after being convicted of stalking actress Mila Kunis, was recaptured four days after escaping from the facility. Dunn was found by members of the Los Angeles County Sheriff‘s department Major Crimes division, who had advised Ms. Kunis about the escape. Dunn escaped from the Pomona facility while supposedly taking a shower. When he took too long a caretaker investigated and noticed that Dunn had gone through a small bathroom window.

Dunn was originally  arrested in 2013, after being in the parking lot of a gym Mila Kunis attended three days in a row. He later broke into a condo that Mila Kunis owned and as a result pled guilty to one count of unauthorized entry. He was ordered to stay away from Mila Kunis for three years.  Dunn was found in an area known to be frequented by the homeless. When officers from Santa Monica stopped him the men from the sheriff’s department saw him with the police and walked up and asked him who he was. Dunn gave a fake name but his true identity was discovered anyway.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with stalking or any other serious crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

According to the L.A. Times, a former Los Angeles police officer who had fled the United States was found in Mexico and  transported back to face murder charges. Henry Solis had relatives in Mexico where he had been staying. Solis was fired by the LAPD when he was named a person of interest in the shooting death of Salome Rodriguez, Jr. Solis was off duty at the time of the crime and did not show up for work the next day. His car was found abandoned near the scene. The police in Pomona had been circulating a flier with a photo and information about the car while canvassing for any witnesses.

Henry Solis was arrested by Mexican authorities in Juarez and deported to Texas. California officials have extradited him and he will be charged with the murder of Salome Rodriguez, Jr. The confrontation with the victim happened in a bar where the two men fought. Solis chased after the man and allegedly shot him multiple times. Solis will also be facing other charges for leaving the scene and trying to avoid capture. His father Victor Solis was charged in Federal court in Texas for his role in helping Henry escape to Juarez. The father had told authorities he dropped Henry Solis off at a bus stop but video shows him entering Mexico with his son.

The case will be a high profile one due to the accused having been a police officer. Solis will be in need of an experienced Defense Attorney to handle his case. If the allegations are found to be true his defense counsel and the Los Angeles County Sheriffs will have to arrange for special custody arraignments due to the fact that Solis is an ex-police officer.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with murder or any other serious crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Photo: Chihuahua State Attorney General's Office

The L.A. Times reported that a San Bernardino man, who had been beaten  by Sheriff’s Deputies after a horse pursuit, has been charged with multiple crimes. Mr. Francis Pusock had received $650,000 from the county of San Bernardino a week after the beating, which was caught on film by a news helicopter. The dollar amount was a result of a settlement and to prevent any further action against the county connected as a result of the beating. The District Attorney alleges Pusock was on a horse which was stolen. He has been released on $100,000 bail.

Pusock was pursued by deputies after fleeing the scene in an attempt to serve a search warrant. He allegedly stole three different vehicles, the horse beside escaping from the police. He is being charged with resisting arrest, evading a police officer, receiving stolen property, reckless driving, possession of meth and possession of marijuana. The arresting officers are on administrative leave while their behavior during the arrest is looked into by the D.A.’s office and the F.B.I., who have are now involved to see f there were any civil rights violation investigation.

An attorney for the defense will have a lot of charges to handle and an experienced California defense attorney will be necessary for this man’s court appearance. The list of crimes, though not violent, is still difficult to answer for – especially the vehicle thefts and reckless driving which could have put people in danger. An experience attorney can sift through the evidence and determine how much is relevant and able to be proven. This would give the accused the best possible chance of reducing any sentence he may have to perform if convicted.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with a serious crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Photo: In this frame from video provided by KNBC-TV, deputies appear to beat and kick Francis Pusok. (KNBC-TV / Associated Press)

On May 20th a woman was detained on the steps of a Federal Building after telling authorities she had a bomb and triggering device. The LAPD dispatched the bomb squad and the SAWT team and a standoff ensued. A robot was dispatched to the scene and was used to deliver a phone to her but she was seen pointing and yelling at the police and pushed the phone away. The building contains a number of offices for a few federal agencies including Immigration, Homeland Security, and the IRS. The building and surrounding area were evacuated. The standoff started around 11:00 AM and ended about 2:00 PM.

The police eventually had to use force in the form of a beanbag shotgun. The woman was found to have no bomb or any other explosive device and was taken away in an ambulance. There were no details about what if anything she had been agitated about. It seems she will be facing numerous State and Federal charges and the threat to a building housing an office for Homeland Security could possibly be highlighted by authorities. There has been an increase in false claims by people made to police to get a SAWT team sent to a crime supposed crime scene. However, this does not appear to be an example of what has become known as “Swatting”. Early evidence seems to point to a mental issue of some type. Still this woman will be facing serious criminal charges and she will need an attorney to assist her.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with a serious crime, such as making a bomb threat, and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Ray McDonald, who was released in December of 2014 by the San Francisco 49ers, was arrested again for violating a restraining order. The former NFL Defensive player signed a free agent contract in March with the Chicago Bears. He was arrested in May for domestic violence and child endangerment. This led to McDonald’s release by the Bears who had been hopeful he could avoid the problems he experienced with the law while a member of the 49ers.

The lineman is currently being investigated for a possible sexual assault charge which took place this past December. He has said he will sue his accuser for defamation. The Bears had made McDonald aware that this kind of problem would not be acceptable and cut ties with him because he couldn’t handle the standard they had asked him to comply with. The Team had already taken criticism for the signing McDonald, but had made comments about giving people second chances to prove themselves.

With the many allegations and charges this man will be in need of a California Defense Attorney that will be able to make the best case for his actions. It seems like a very difficult battle and Mr. McDonald will need experienced legal help to handle these complex issues. It appears that there are problems that would make some type of counseling by court order part of any plea negotiation. An experienced attorney can make this a priority as well as being sure that all the facts are in before this man’s past problems lead to an unfair rush to judgement.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with Domestic Violence or any other crime  and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

The Memorial Day weekend has seen a rise in fatal accidents in years past so the Highway Patrol was very vigilant in seat belt usage this past weekend. There was an increase in DUI checkpoints as well. The use of checkpoints for DUI is to make citizens more aware of the problems caused by driving under the influence. These checkpoints do have a certain protocol that must be followed to make sure safety of the state’s motorists is maintained.

Since there usually should be a probable cause for a police officer pulling one over, this protocol must be strictly followed in order to be permissible by California and federal law. The supervising officers must be making all procedural decisions; the checkpoint must be reasonably located and observe safety precautions. Roadblocks for this purpose should be advertised in advance and stopping time for motorists should be kept a minimum of time and the time spent going through the checkpoint should show good judgement by the officers.

The seat belt awareness  could  lead to some people being stopped who are returning from a party and could lead to a possible DUI arrest. Not wearing a seatbelt would satisfy the probable cause a police officer needs to stop a driver. With checkpoints and watching for seat belt usage last Memorial Day weekend we may see a higher number of people than usual facing DUI charges.

If you have been stopped recently at a DUI checkpoint and arrested you will be best served by consulting with a California defense attorney. They know all the procedures that should have been followed during the stop that caused this charge in the first place. Other police activity after your arrest may have not properly followed and this can be used by your attorney in your defense to have the charge reduced or removed from your record.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with a DUI or any other crime as a result of a DUI Checkpoint stop and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

On May 9, 2015, CBS Los Angeles reported of a fatal accident involving a white Mercedes sedan and an Audi SUV in Beverly Hills. The two vehicles collided at Olympic Boulevard and Swall Drive around midnight and a passenger in the Mercedes was killed. No other serious injuries were reported but the other passengers did go to the hospital. The police are investigating why the Mercedes was traveling at such a high rate of speed in a residential neighborhood.

A witness was said to have told police that the Mercedes had been involved in a confrontation with a taxi cab earlier and had left the scene franticly. This is why there have been some mentions of the accident being related to road rage. Drugs and/or alcohol may have been a possible cause according to the police but no further comments were available and toxicology results take some time. The woman who died in the crash was a passenger and it is reported she was not wearing her seat belt.

When the case gets concluded there can be a lot of problems for the driver of the Mercedes. The high rate of speed, the possibility of road rage, and the potential charge of a DUI will be a lot to answer for. The death of the passenger may lead to a charge of involuntary manslaughter or some other serious offense. The person or persons responsible will need to consult with a California Defense attorney that has experience defending people facing multiple charges. This is the only way for the driver to get ahead of the state and offers the best chance at a minimum punishment if they are charged.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with road rage or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

According to a May 13, 2015, CBS local news Los Angeles report local police announced that a suspect has been arrested for a crime committed in Manhattan Beach in November of 2014. A second suspect is still at large and is believed to be connected to another home invasion robbery in Los Angeles.

The two men were connected to the crime committed in November by DNA evidence. It is alleged that the suspect was one of four men who entered the Manhattan Beach home and waited for the occupants to return. Once the occupants came back they were tied up and made to open a safe which had money and guns in it. The suspects have been charged with numerous crimes including burglary, robbery and false imprisonment.

The second suspect who remains at large might be better off turning himself in due to the seriousness of the charges. With his accomplice already in custody chances of continuing to elude the police are slim. These types of crimes are never taken lightly by the authorities especially when weapons are part of the stolen property, making it a serious public safety issue.

Anyone that is involved in a serious crime like this or a misdemeanor should consult with a California defense attorney to see exactly what options are available. For instance the man in custody may be offered a plea deal for information on other crimes committed. Whether innocent or guilty a defendant only has his/her word and the help of a Defense attorney when charged with a crime. The man on the run, suspected of a second break in, may be innocent of that charge and it will be hard to prove this without an experienced attorney as an ally.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with robbery and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Photo: Manhattan Beach PD

Homophobic and racially charged texts between police officers in San Francisco will be the focus of a new Task Force investigation according to District Attorney George Gascon. The task force has no deadline but the D.A. stated that the investigation may be finished by the end of the year. The texts came to light during the U.S. Attorney’s corruption prosecution of a San Francisco police officer. The texts were used in an argument to deny bail to the accused man. Other texts have surfaced showing a bias against homosexuals and minorities. The D.A. is charging the task force with reviewing over 3,000 cases that the fourteen officers now involved in the probe were working.

The task force will be looking for any indication that any of these cases were the result of these officers possibly falsely accusing people and other actions that could dismiss pending cases and possibly having some convictions overturned. The D.A.is a former police chief of the city and has said even one innocent person behind bars in this case is too many. The San Francisco area has been the scene of many recent charges being made against law officers. This current task force has been borne out of these troubles. In the case that brought the texts to light the accused officer was sentenced to almost four years in prison for the corruption charges the prosecution was able to prove.

If you or a family member has been involved in one of these cases or charged with another crime a California defense attorney must be retained to insure your rights are not violated. An experienced attorney can look into this group of cases and at any other case and find mistakes or bad activity involving arresting officers. Contact an attorney as soon as you are charged to get the best defense possible.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with a crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Photo: San Francisco police Chief Greg Suhr in 2013. (Jeff Chiu / Associated Press)

Los Angeles County Sheriffs have arrested a woman, found at the home of Chris Brown, on suspicion of breaking and entering. Chris Brown posted a picture of her on his Instagram account with the caption: “I get home, and find this crazy individual in my house…Then had all these crazy voodoo things around my crib…I pray she will get help.” The singer said he returned home and found that she had cooked several meals and painted her name on some of his cars and I love you on some walls in his house. According to the singer she also threw his daughter’s clothes and items belonging to his dog out while there.

Breaking and entering especially one like this will be taken seriously. The woman gained access by removing the hinges on one of the doors of the home. It would seem that she was very determined to meet Chris Brown. There are many legal ramifications to this type of activity. A celebrity can take legal precautions such as a restraining order, but if there is a question of sanity this may not stop the attempt for more contact by this person. There are also the actions taken by the police. If this woman is mentally incompetent there may be alternative places for her to be held besides the police station.

If this person does have a mental impairment her family should be involved for her own safety. Private security people may not be as understanding as police officers who are used to dealing with mentally deficient offenders. A California defense attorney should be retained by the family to make sure there is no rush to judgement in her guilt or innocence. Proper care for someone with a mental condition is one thing an attorney can be able to get for this person and anyone else facing charges due to an activity that a mentally balanced person would not do. If you have a family member in trouble with mental incapacities a California defense attorney is needed.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with breaking and entering or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

The Sacramento Bee has reported that Michael Ramirez of Contra Costa, who had multiple previous DUI convictions, has been sentenced to five years in prison for driving under the influence and operating a vehicle with a suspended license. A member of the sheriff’s office in El Dorado County had stopped Mr. Ramirez because, even though driving slowly in a slow lane, his windshield wipers were on and his driving pattern was erratic. A news release identified his alcohol level to be between 0.11 to 0.12 – well over the California limit.

Mr. Ramirez is no stranger to this charge, he has had four different DUI convictions and has served in prison for this crime on two separate occasions. California courts do not take it lightly when a defendant has multiple previous convictions. A California defense attorney called in the first time may have been able to challenge the arrest on grounds such as the breathalyzer was not functioning properly or some other misstep in police procedure that could reduce the charge and not lead to a serious a consequence as a jail term if a second arrest occurs.

This case illuminates how aggressively state and county officials pursue convictions for DUI in California. The newspaper report stated that a prosecution team specializing in trying and winning cases involving felony and misdemeanor DUI charges was brought in to convict Mr. Ramirez and the result was a five year sentence.

A California defense attorney must be brought in if you or a family member is facing a DUI charge. If you are convicted the results may not be as severe as this one but even the least damaging result will still place this on your record. State fines, a suspended license and higher insurance rates will make things worse. Since the county can bring in their best team you should give yourself the same benefits that an experienced attorney can bring to your defense.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with DUI or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Two brothers have been sentenced in the Reseda murder of a third youth in 2013. The brothers had challenged the 18 year old victim Kevin Orlellana when he was playing handball as a possible member of a rival gang. The altercation that followed ended with Orellana being stabbed and the two brothers fleeing in a car driven by a third person, Michelle Pineda.

Anthony and Michael Caprio had originally pled not guilty to the crime of murder and Anthony was also charged with using a deadly weapon for the benefit of a street gang. The arresting officers were able to use messages on social media to help in their investigation. They also had charged Ms. Pineda for being an accessory after the fact. She has already accepted a sentence of two years for her part in the crime. She and her attorney had pled no contest to the charge which may have led to a lighter sentence.

The brothers are serving sentences from 15 years to life for the charges of second degree murder. Authorities have identified them as members of the Rockwood Street gang which can make a defense difficult even when the accused are so young. This type of crime is still an ongoing concern to authorities and anyone convicted of this kind of crime can expect a long sentence.

Any person accused of a crime is sure to need the help of an experienced California criminal defense attorney. Accepting a court appointed lawyer may not be good enough as to often they have too many clients to spend enough time on every person assigned to them. An attorney personally retained can spend more time and effort in keeping the sentence at a minimum and they can make a case for mitigating circumstances that a court appointed attorneys might have missed.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with murder or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

A man who allegedly sexually assaulted a woman in Santa Rosa, California is still at large. The police have provided a sketch of the suspect in an attack that was similar to two others in the area in the last year. A woman who was walking on a path near Round Barn Boulevard was grabbed by the man and when she struggled they fell to the ground. He was grabbing at her under her clothes and she kept fighting and yelling until he got up and ran away.

The other incidents occurred three miles away from the last attack in the Pierson Avenue area along a trail by a creek and on Spring Lake Park. On one occasion the man was on a bicycle. In all the incidents the women screamed and this seemed to send him away before doing anything more to his victims. The descriptions were not an exact match; one estimated the man as being 5’10” another had him at 6’ and a third victim estimated the assailant to be 6’2’. He has brown hair and one of the victims has said she thinks he may have a reduced mental capacity.

There is also a reward of $25,000 being offered for information leading to an arrest in any of these incidents. This person could possibly be better off consulting a California criminal defense attorney now instead of continuing to stay at large and potentially running the risk of facing additional charges. A reward and a description along with a sketch may lead to an arrest that will require an experienced attorney in any case. It may be beneficial to speak to defense counsel now to find the best possible solution to the pending legal problems. Having an experienced professional on your side to prepare the most appropriate defense strategy is essential for walking away from any criminal charges with the best result.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with assault or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Photo: Santa Rosa Police Department

The trial of David Acuna, who is charged with the murder of a resident of Natomas, California, will begin April 29, 2015, in Sacramento. This murder took place in 2013 and the accused also faces arson charges as part of the indictment. The prosecutors are charged with proving Mr. Acuna stabbed Mr. Patrick Kendrick a man he knew. There was a confrontation over the selling of some electronics equipment. Mr. Acuna was allegedly in favor of taking cash but Mr. Kendrick offered him heroin instead. The police believe at the end of the negotiations Mr. Acuna stabbed Mr. Kendrick and then tried to hide the crime by setting fire to Kendrick’s apartment. This information came out during pre-trial proceedings.

Police did arrest Acuna and reported that he was badly burned, the police later questioned Acuna’s girlfriend about the fire as well and arrested her. The girlfriend of the accused has since taken a plea bargain deal from the prosecutors. She was charged and pled guilty to arson and use of an accelerant to start the fire. The defense attorney for Ms. Cabrera had challenged the legality of the interrogation of his client but the judge did not see it that way and subsequently she took the deal.

A California Defense Attorney must make decisions like this for the well-being of their client. In this case the motive may seem clear and the plea deal taken by the accomplice will make it hard for the man accused in the murder. His girlfriend’s attorney judged this to be the best avenue for her. Starting next week the attorney for the accused will need to decide how to move forward and make the best case for his client’s defense. Proper representation is a must for anyone that has been charged with a crime in the state of California to help with these strategies that can lead to acquittal or a reduced sentence.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with murder or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Photo: SacramentoPress.com | Staff Photo

On April 15, 2015, Federal Agents arrested two men who work at the La Mesa Armory on suspicion of selling weapons and ammunition according to a story in Los Angeles Times. The men charged were said to have sold the weapons to an agent posing as a member of a Mexican drug cartel. Jaime Casillas and Andrew Reyes had even worn their uniforms on at least one occasion when they sold the stolen merchandise. They will be held in San Diego to await trial.

They sold body armor to the agent along with 16,000 rounds of ammunition. Overall they are charged with being involved in seven separate transactions like this including the sale of four U.S. Army style assault rifles and a Soviet AK 47. One of the men traveled to Texas to purchase a weapon later sold to the federal agent so he will be charged with a transportation offense as well. Currently the charges involve selling firearms without a license, but there could be more to come especially since Mr. Reyes, according to the story filed, is a Mexican National possibly in the reserves to help him attain citizenship.

Any story involving members of the military involved in any kind of criminal enterprise is disappointing and hard for anyone to justify. The chance that these men will be tried quickly could be welcome but the court system whether federal or local will still allow these men to offer their side of the story. An experienced California defense attorney will have to be hired to analyze the case and design the best possible defense according to the facts and achieve the best result for the accused. Anyone charged with a crime needs one of these professionals on their side to help them attain the best possible outcome to their trial.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with sale of ammunition or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Photo: Google Maps

On April 15, 2015, the Los Angeles Times reported that Yuba City policeman Harminder Phagura had been arrested by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Agency Investigations division. The officer is being charged with drug trafficking for helping a man believed to be a relative in a drug selling operation. The officer would keep an eye on reports that may indicate police presence in areas where his suspected partner may be doing business.

Officer Phagura would cruise the areas where these deals sometimes took place and listen to his radio for any word of trouble, then he would pass along any pertinent information to the perpetrators. One instance named in the indictment stated that Phagura texted the word HOT to the drug seller when the federal authorities had made it known they would be there. The ironic twist was that they were not just there to stop a drug deal they were there to watch the officer and take note of his behavior.

The federal authorities first heard of this connection on a recorded conversation where the alleged drug dealer, who also has been charged in the incident, claimed to have a friend on the inside to a law enforcement informant. The Police department issued a statement regretting the incident and acknowledging that it is especially hard for the public to see someone on the right side of the law doing something illegal.

This police officer, like anyone else charged with a crime, will need an ally to work their way through the court system. A California attorney, with criminal defense experience, will be that person and will try to insure the defendant’s rights are not violated. A rush to judgement may be understandable to some in cases involving charged police officers, but the California Courts do want all those who are charged with a crime to have a fair trial – and the best way to secure the best possible verdict is with an experienced attorney on your side.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with drug trafficking or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Photo: Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times

Two different hit and run accidents in the area of University of Southern California have led to rewards being offered for information on either one. The first case, that has seen no new leads lately, involves an accident that took the life of a man after a black sedan hit him while he was crossing the street in a designated crosswalk on March 10, 2015. The second hit and run in the USC area took place on March 16, 2015. The victim this time was an elderly woman who so far has survived but who suffered two broken legs and other serious injuries – according to reports, this victim was also using a crosswalk.

The second driver was in an Infiniti SUV with paper license plates. Unlike the first driver who never slowed down or went back this driver turned around and then sped past the scene and reportedly later ran a red light. Both incidents have been recorded by security cameras. The reward for each incident is $50,000. In light of the recordings and vehicle descriptions and now the rewards authorities are hopeful to find both individuals.

The drivers will be in a lot of trouble if they are ever tracked down and the need for a California Criminal Defense Attorney will be critical in making a case that may minimize their punishment. Each one can help themselves tremendously by going to a defense attorney and arrive at the best plan for their defense. That might include meeting with the attorney and arranging a safe transfer to the authorities. California Courts have shown leniency when the person who is accused of a hit and run surrenders peacefully. Certainly when an arrest comes they will be best served in retaining an experienced defense attorney to explain what needs to be done to get the best outcome for the accused.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with hit and run or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours.

On March 10, 2015, four different drivers were confronted by a woman of similar description and two of them had their cars stolen by her in Tustin, California. The first victim had her doors locked and windows closed and the suspect couldn’t take the vehicle. ABC Eyewitness news reported that after the first attempted carjacking the woman, who was armed with a knife, went to a second car where she was able to gain entry to a Volvo and she drove it away leaving the owner at the scene unharmed.

She soon stopped and left that car but moved on to a Prius and smashed the window with the knife and was able to steal that car too. Then she again deserted the stolen Prius and tried to steal a woman’s truck. This driver was able to fend off her attempts to steal the car and the suspect moved on after people came to the driver’s aid. She was reported as having non-life threatening injuries at that time.

On March 12, 2015, the police arrested the suspect as a result of DNA evidence found in the cars. The woman charged is identified as Jocelyn Cano of Santa Ana, California. She has a criminal record, which is why her DNA was on file with authorities. It would have served her better to turn herself in to authorities with the help of a California criminal defense attorney.

A person who gets involved in a crime and has not been arrested may get in front of the trouble by meeting with an attorney and discussing the best option for their next move. This person should have figured out that the DNA on file would see her caught and it may now be too late for any leniency. An experienced defense attorney would have been able to remind her of the DNA on file and could have helped her bring about a better conclusion to this case than facing an arrest and arraignment on her own.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with car jacking or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Photo: Tustin Police Department

Robert Durst, the real estate heir and man suspected in his wife’s murder many years ago, is back in Los Angeles news after being arrested in Louisiana. He was arrested because a friend of his, Susan Berman, was found dead soon after Los Angeles police allegedly wanted to speak with her about Durst and any information she might have in his first wife’s disappearance in 1982. This is not the only time he was suspected in a murder – when living in Houston he was arrested in connection with the death of a neighbor.

The legal team has complained in Los Angeles County Superior Court about the arrest that was made in Louisiana. According to papers they filed his room was illegally searched and they found marijuana and a revolver. Convicted felons are not allowed to possess firearms in Louisiana, but only if convicted of certain crimes. Durst falls into the category that makes it legal for him to carry one. The FBI agents who did the search did not at that time have a search warrant for Durst’s room. On April 8, 2015, Robert Durst was indicted on gun charges in Louisiana. This will delay his extradition to Los Angeles for months, if not years.

In a bizarre twist that brought him back to the world’s attention he was heard in a documentary of sorts being made about his life mumbling that he did kill the people he has been suspected of killing. Surely these words that have been televised could make for grounds that will be the focus of his defense team for the current charges and those in the past.

A California defense attorney has to consider the law and what will best serve his client. Questions of illegal search and seizure or the reliability of recorded messages or film are looked into to make sure the police have not made mistakes in a rush to judgment about a person’s guilt. If you have an arrest warrant you need the help of an attorney that will work to make sure that all of your rights are upheld.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with murder or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

The kidnapping of Denise Huskins has been the subject of local and national news stories and television reports. In what last week seemed to be thought of as a hoax Ms. Huskins was reported taken forcibly from her boyfriend’s home. He spoke to police and FBI agents and they were reported as being skeptical but they did search the area for clues. When she turned up as released without any money exchanging hands the FBI arranged for her to be flown to their Northern California offices for questioning.

She never got on the plane and since then the story has taken what may be a turn in her and her boyfriend’s favor. Her attorney has stated that there was indeed a kidnapping and it has come to light that emails from the alleged kidnappers have been received by The San Francisco Chronicle. These emails show that the kidnapping was a dry run and they felt the accusations of a hoax by Vallejo police angered them. The L.A. Times has reported that one email said the police should apologize by a certain time or they would do some harm. The deadline came and went with no problems according to police.

This group had attached a 19 page letter describing the abduction and even discusses why they chose the $8,500 price for the ransom. Whether they believe the emails to be truthful or another part of the hoax police aren’t saying. They will be required to do their due diligence especially in light of these new developments

Ms. Huskins’ attorney did prove that when you are even suspected of a crime consulting with a California defense attorney does not have to wait until you are arrested. The activities that a California defense attorney can perform for you can be taken up well before a hearing or sentencing happens. If you are in a bad situation and might have legal problems with the police, consultation with experienced attorneys can be the difference in proving your innocence.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with a crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

A restaurant owner in Valencia, California was placed into custody by deputies from the Human Trafficking and major crime force divisions of the Sheriff’s department March 24, 2015. Federal officers are also involved in the case that was originally brought to the attention of authorities by the victim’s brother. His brother had sent an email from India to law enforcement describing the victim’s plight.

The authorities say that the restaurant owner allegedly has been making the man work at his business for three years. He was kept away from other people and at times was physically manhandled to keep him in line. He has not been paid during those three years. He was not able to escape from the restaurant while working and he was kept at the owner’s home and driven to and from work so getting away was not even possible during off hours. Other violations could be coming considering the man worked sometimes more than fourteen hours a day.

Of course the hours worked are of little concern to the man who was basically held hostage. A possible kidnapping charge may not be ruled out. At present Mr. Pardeep Kumar is charged with assault with a deadly weapon, involuntary servitude, human trafficking, and mayhem.

Not only is he in trouble with California but there could possibly be other federal charges to be answered for. The restaurant owner will be in need of a California defense attorney to not only present the best defense for him but to possibly investigate any plea bargain options if the case against him is too strong. It is the only way he can hope to have any chance of escaping this situation he has found himself in. Human Trafficking is a very serious charge and the case must be turned over to an experienced defense counsel immediately to make the best of what seems to be a very bad situation for the defendant.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with human trafficking or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

A woman from Vallejo, California has gone missing for the second time this week. The first time her boyfriend called the police and said she was forcibly taken from his home and soon after a ransom demand had been sent to him. The police were skeptical but they soon brought in the FBI to help with the case. The missing woman Denise Huskins showed up at her mother’s home two days later. She had also contacted her father by phone and left a voicemail detailing her whereabouts.

Police and the FBI during those two days had come to think the boyfriend’s story was not very believable. When Ms. Huskins reappeared they were very interested to speak with her. They had already been frustrated in trying to prove what they were being told by her boyfriend who by now is being thought of mare as an accomplice to an elaborate hoax. A lot of police time was spent with a search being conducted throughout the neighborhood and other activities that seem to have all been a big waste of time.

The woman has again disappeared. She never boarded a plane that was to take her to an interview with the FBI. Police have not been able to contact others in her family either. There is word that the victim has retained an attorney. That is a good thing because either way she will need an informed lawyer to handle any fallout from her disappearance whether the story is true or not.

A California defense attorney will have to use all their skills to get the best result for this client. The police will not take the wasted time and effort too kindly. If she is charged the best chance for making her side of the story heard will be with the help of a California defense attorney with trial experience.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with kidnapping or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Photo: Vallejo Police Department / AP News

It took a long while find out who has struck and killed a pedestrian in the Pacific Palisades last December, but the driver has been identified. The son of a California judge was walking home from a party when Marguerite Vuong hit him with her car while driving to her job at a Postal facility. Her vehicle was damaged and she took the vehicle home to get another car so she would not be questioned about the damage to the vehicle. Her husband has also been sentenced for lying to the police telling them he was the driver.

Surveillance cameras from nearby houses eventually led police to the Vuong home. It was particularly painful to the family of the young man as he did not die immediately after the accident. He passed away days later and maybe he would have survived if the couple had called the police immediately. The defendant and her husband both pleaded no contest. She was sentenced to three years in jail and he was given a one year jail sentence. Police had a recording of Mrs. Vuong at the police station telling her husband to tell the lie about him being the driver.

A hit and run case involving a fatality is a difficult case for all those involved. Many cases involving vehicular homicide are at their most basic an unintentional occurrence. It’s the trying to cover things up and avoiding the situation that makes the most trouble for the driver. In California a defense attorney must be called in all for cases involving the death or injury to a pedestrian colliding with a car.

Mrs. Vuong who has said she feels remorse would be doing much better if the accident was phoned in immediately and a California defense attorney was consulted as soon as possible. She did accept a plea bargain but her actions did tie the hands of her representative in what he could do to keep her sentence to a minimum.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with vehicular manslaughter or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

St. Patrick’s Day is usually reserved for Parades and getting together with your friends. Unfortunately some times that get together involves drinking after work and that can turn the day from fun to no fun quickly. The National Highway Safety Council however rates this as one of the worst days involving traffic fatalities. The state of California had taken notice of those statistics and many DUI checkpoints were set up to prevent accidents and fatalities.

When these days come along safety is certainly the issue. Sometimes though the best intentioned driver may still be found to be over the legal limit when going through one of these checkpoints. The idea that maybe there was no probable cause has been settled long ago but there are still some ways to fight a DUI ticket in California. Many times for instance throughout the country the breathalyzer or other tests used may have been improperly performed giving a tainted result. You have no way of knowing this and if you go to your trial alone and just willing to pay the fine you never will know.

A DUI can cost you fines, possibly time lost from work as you have to find other means of transportation, and higher insurance costs – and that is just the tip of the iceberg. There are many other problems caused by having this on your record a DUI might even cost you a better job in the future and a second DUI (if you ever get another) can create even greater problems with fines, suspensions and possibly even jail time.

In the California legal system a person with a DUI needs a defense attorney to make sure all of these questions about testing, probable cause, and other nuances of the law are asked. Only a California DUI defense attorney can achieve the best result for anyone that has been charged with DUI.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with a DUI or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood.

A night at a sports bar in Oceanside, California turned ugly and when it was over a man had been injured in a hit and run accident that later was found to possibly be much more than that. The driver of the vehicle was eventually arrested by police, who were led to his home by a GPS device that the defendant is required to have due to his being on probation. The accused, James Medvec, has ties to the Hells Angels and he had argued with a small group of people at the bar earlier that night.

The man hit was the father- in- law of a woman who Medvec allegedly said inappropriate things to. He was quoted by others at the scene to say he would hit the woman, her husband, and her father-in-law when he saw them outside as everyone was leaving. Then a car appeared and hit the elder gentleman and sped off. He has suffered a collapsed lung and some broken bones.

The original complaint was set to ask for an attempted murder charge but that was later taken out. Medvec is still facing charges of assault and leaving the scene of an accident. The seriousness of the charges even without the attempted murder complaint, combined with the defendant’s record, will make this a hard case for his defense counsel. A person who loses control of their temper can find themselves in serious problems. Maybe not to this extent- but it can happen.

If you or a family member is arrested for assault or have a vehicular based offense filed against you a California defense attorney should be contacted immediately. The case above shows that the more serious charge was dropped possibly due to his attorney’s knowledge of California statutes in such cases. Contact an experienced today if you are in trouble with the law.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with assault or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

A California woman, who was operating a vehicle that hit another car, killing the driver and seriously injuring his wife, has pleaded guilty recently in a San Diego courtroom to a manslaughter charge. The accident happened in February of 2013. A seventy seven year old man driving a car that the defendant hit was killed and his wife suffered many broken bones. In a tragic note the woman, Soranon Boopanon, a veteran of the United States Air Force, was on her way to a Veterans facility that is helping her with disabilities related to her 13 year Air Force career.

The attorney for the defense had tried to have the case sent to a military venue but it was settled in a San Diego County courtroom instead. The defendant was under the influence of anti-depressants, including valium, at the time of the accident. The woman ran a red light and, by eyewitness accounts, she speeded up to get through it. She is to be sentenced later this year bringing a close to the case.

She faces up to seven years for the plea and it may be less if the court system can be convinced to take the Defendant’s military service and disability into consideration. That may be difficult to do however due to the fatality involved and her impairment.

The California criminal court system has many cases like this one that aren’t a cut and dried affair. The defendants California criminal defense attorney for instance did try to change the venue of the case to a military one that may have taken her service and related disability into account.

Any person charged with a crime and headed to trial should make the effort to contact a California defense attorney and not leave things up to just making a plea or using a public defender. It’s your life that is at stake and there are many filings and strategies that your attorney can devise to get your case the best possible result.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with manslaughter or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

According to a Los Angeles Times article on March 3, 2015 the brother of Paris Hilton, Conrad, is scheduled to appear in a Los Angeles courtroom to be arraigned on an assault charge. This stems from an in July of last year incident last year when the younger brother of the socialite and reality TV star became belligerent on a flight from London. He was said to have been going into the bathroom on a few occasions and used it for smoking tobacco and marijuana. He became abusive to an attendant and grabbed another by the shirt. He was heard to call the attendants and the crew “peasants”.

Then he attempted to hit one of the crew members after the problem with the attendants before he returned to his seat and fell asleep. The crew then restrained him. Others on the flight were said to be upset and frightened. At one point Mr. Conrad Hilton told an attendant he would have her fired and that his father had once paid $300,000 to get his son out of a similar incident on another flight.

There is a plea agreement that Mr. Hilton has signed that admits guilt and he promises to show up for all future court dates and not argue any points of the case during the arraignment. He does face up to six months in jail and a year of supervised release.

A California assault charge is a bad mark on a person’s record. If you or someone you know has a hearing scheduled for a crime, a criminal defense attorney is a must. As this case shows even when a suspect is guilty the negotiations to mitigate the punishment can be accomplished if the attorney has criminal defense experience. Having the right criminal defense attorney could even lead to a dismissal of the charge or having the charge reduced to a lesser one with a much lighter sentence.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with assault or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

There was an illegal street race in Chatsworth, California that led to the deaths of two spectators and seriously injured another. Israel Venezuela was arrested by the Valley Traffic division according to the LA Daily News story on March 5, 2015. He is the second man arrested for the crash which occurred on February 26, 2015. The first man arrested has been quoted as saying he was not driving the Mustang that careened into a crowd that had gathered to watch the race.

Mr. Venezuela turned himself in after police released his name as a person of interest. He is under arrest for suspicion of murder and bail has been set at $2,000,000. He is believed to be the man driving the car that went out of control on Plummer Street in Chatsworth. The first man arrested, Mr. Henry Gevorgyan, has a court appearance scheduled for March 11. At that time a hearing date will be set at which time it will be determined whether there is evidence that he should also face charges in the incident and be tried.

Another legal matter connected to the case is that Councilman Mitch Englander wants to have an ordinance that will allow the city to seize and destroy vehicles in future incidents of this nature. The loss of life and serious injury connected to any illegal activity can have grave consequences for all involved. Even in a case such as this where injuring innocent bystanders was not the intent of those involved.

It is clear that a California defense attorney is involved in the case as the court activities relating to the first man can attest. The second defendant is in serious need of the same help, as anyone else in charges stemming from any illegal activity. If a family member has been charged with a crime, they must go to an experienced attorney who is used to the California criminal justice system and all of the intricacies of criminal law if they hope to secure the best possible result in their case.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with vehicular manslaughter or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

The auto accident that occurred earlier in February of 2015, involving reality TV star Bruce Jenner, is still under investigation by the Major Crimes Bureau of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. An examination of the phone records of all parties involved is still underway in order to determine if anyone may have been negligent in operating their vehicle at the time of the accident. Though video from the event seems to show that Bruce Jenner wasn’t using his phone at the time of impact, he could still face misdemeanor or felony charges that could result in jail time depending on the findings of investigators.

Legal professionals who have spoken publicly about the accident feel as though Bruce Jenner will likely escape criminal charges for his part in the accident that resulted in one death. And even if the television personality did face criminal charges, the fact that this would be his first serious offense would likely limit the possibility (or length) of a prison sentence.

Negligent driving that results in a death or vehicular manslaughter can carry some very stiff penalties. A conviction on this type of charge can result in anywhere from one year up to more than six years behind bars.

The possibility of any prison time (let alone up to six years) should compel the accused to immediately consult with an experienced attorney. If you have been involved in an auto accident and criminal charges are pending you need a criminal defense attorney that has experience dealing with felony charges stemming from operating an automobile.

The right criminal defense attorney can evaluate the evidence gathered at the scene, including any video footage, consult with eyewitnesses and even conduct a re-enactment if necessary to gather the information necessary to construct the strongest possible defense. The right defense strategy could mean the difference between a lengthy prison sentence; probation or even having charges dismissed.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with vehicular manslaughter or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

An Illinois woman has brought charges of battery and infliction of emotional distress against the owner of a Kane County haunted house. The incident that prompted the filing occurred in October of 2014, when the woman claims that she and her teenage daughter were accosted by two employees in the parking lot of the haunted house.

The plaintiff, Regina Janito, claims that two employees, both dressed as clowns verbally assaulted her and her daughter and even went so far as to poke at them with sex toys during the encounter. There is a civil suit that is pending where the plaintiff is seeking unspecified damages for the emotion pain and distress that her family suffered during the event – but the civil matter will remain on hold until the criminal case has been resolved.

Both the owner of the haunted house and the two employees who were accused of being involved in this incident need a good criminal defense attorney on their side. Battery is a very serious charge that can carry some stiff penalties for those who face a possible conviction – so this incident needs a thorough examination by someone who has explored the defendants’ side of the story. If the incident occurred on haunted house property, was it part of the show? Did the defendants simply take the theatrics a little too far or was there intent to harass or harm in their actions?

If you are facing criminal charges you need to enlist the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The right attorney can gather the necessary facts from your story, from the scene and from eye witnesses in order to develop the best defense strategy possible. If the criminal charges are trumped up or if you have been wrongfully accused, your attorney will work diligently to have those charges reduced or dismissed to ensure the best possible outcome to the case.

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide clients with passionate and experienced representation. If you have been charged with battery or any other crime and would like to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer at our firm, contact us by phone at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. We promptly return phone calls and emails. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in West Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. We have flexible and weekend office hours, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.

Photo: Robert Keller