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Published on October 31, 2023
San Leandro Officer's Defense Firm Faces Disqualification in Manslaughter Case, Ethical Conduct Concerns Arise in Alameda CountySource: Alameda County District Attorney's Office

Alameda County District Attorney, Pamela Price, filed a motion to disqualify the defense law firm representing San Leandro Police Officer Jason Fletcher, charged with voluntary manslaughter in the shooting of Steven Taylor on April 18, 2020. The motion calls for the disqualification of Michael Rains and his firm due to alleged unethical conduct, as outlined in a recent Facebook post by the Alameda County District Attorney's Office.

Accusations suggest Rains obtained privileged attorney work product from the DA's Office through his client, former Alameda County prosecutor Amilcar "Butch" Ford, who was on paid administrative leave for alleged misconduct at the time. He is being prosecuted to defend the integrity of the judicial system. DA Price stated, "We're defending the family of Steven Taylor and will continue to fight for justice for his survivors."

With this case progressing, the implication of this motion and its impact on police accountability in the U.S. are important to contemplate. The death of Steven Taylor, referred to by DA Price as "a traumatizing event for the community," puts the spotlight on the quest for justice in law enforcement and the criminal justice system.

The Taylor case will resume in court on November 20, where further discussions on the motion and case proceedings will take place.