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In light of recent frustration with the Alameda County District Attorney's Office, a rally unfolded as families and supporters of multiple homicide victims came together, demanding justice and accountability. They voiced their criticism towards District Attorney Pamela Price, accusing her of failing to hold perpetrators responsible and adequately protect the community. This rally took place yesterday, a few days after the recall effort against Price began.
About 40 people, mostly Alameda County homicide victim families, came out to demand justice Saturday afternoon outside the main Oakland courthouse. Many are also calling for the recall of DA Pamela Price. pic.twitter.com/yiw6pI8imZ
— The Berkeley Scanner (@BerkeleyScanner) August 19, 2023
Anna Tolentino, mother of Rienhart Asuncion, shared her dissatisfaction with the way her son's case was handled. Asuncion was tragically killed last year in an incident believed to be related to road rage. Tolentino stated that the sentence given to the 17-year-old suspect linked to the case was unacceptable and should have been lengthier. As she requested for the District Attorney's attention, others in attendance expressed similar grievances, some with signs endorsing the recall of Price, as mentioned on the Berkeley Scanner.
At the rally, other families echoed the same sentiments, seeking justice and accountability for their deceased loved ones. Some accused Price of favoring the perpetrators and contributing to the rise of violent crimes in the county. Although it should be noted that Price only took office earlier this year, many believe that her policies have made the jobs of law enforcement more difficult.
Butch Ford, a former Alameda County prosecutor who is now facing charges from Price, spoke out against her handling of these cases, stating that her approach towards criminal justice had been the main reason for the lighter sentences. Brenda Grisham, a longtime victims' rights advocate, also criticized the DA's office treatment of homicide victims' families, calling for an end to increasingly lenient sentences. A mother who lost her son, Patricia Harris, lamented the lack of communication between families and the DA's office and expressed hope that there would finally be some accountability in the future.
As the recall effort against Price officially launched, she now has a few more days to respond. The process for collecting signatures will begin shortly after this period, though details on the exact requirements and procedures are still awaiting clarification from state and county officials. The Alameda County Democratic Party has stepped in to defend Price, urging voters to let her fulfill her duties and implement the reforms she promised during her campaign. The DA's office, however, has yet to comment on the situation.
