Los Angeles– a city of progress marred by deep systemic inequities. Nowhere is this injustice more evident than in our legal system, where Black leaders endure relentless scrutiny and prosecution, while others who actually commit similar alleged offenses walk away with little more than a slap on the wrist. These disparities not only reveal the entrenched bias but oftentimes come at the expense of the very communities these leaders strive to uplift.
Take the case of Assistant District Attorney Diana Teran, a known political operative who previously led the division that filed charges against LA City Councilmember Curren Price. Teran was charged by Attorney General Rob Bonta and arrested for unlawfully accessing confidential computer data, including peace officer files, in 2018 and continuing to misuse this information after joining the District Attorney’s Office in 2021.
Her alleged actions cast a troubling shadow over both former District Attorney George Gascón, who hired her, and newly elected DA Nathan Hochman. Critics argue that Gascón may have used Councilmember Price as a pawn to project a tough-on-crime image during his re-election campaign. Now Hochman, who ran on promises of justice and transparency, faces a critical test of leadership: Will he rise to meet the moment or perpetuate the inequities that have long plagued our city and nation?
Justice is not merely about prosecuting to enhance the prosecutor’s political image; it’s about ensuring fairness for all. This fairness demands that Hochman investigate whether Teran’s alleged misconduct tainted cases prosecuted under her influence. One case requiring immediate attention is that of Councilmember Price, a progressive Black leader and tireless advocate for working-class communities.
Price has championed higher wages and improved working conditions, affordable housing, park investments, and sustainability initiatives in South Los Angeles. Additionally, he has spearheaded efforts to address homelessness with compassion and urgency. Yet, despite his achievements, he was targeted by dubious legal actions initiated under Gascón for alleged conflicts of interest charges that he vehemently denies.
The question is clear: Did Teran’s alleged misconduct compromise Price’s case?
In an LA Times article, Hochman acknowledged the potential impact of Teran’s actions on past cases, emphasizing the need for review. But words without action are meaningless. Black Angelenos—and all Angelenos—deserve more than rhetoric. A comprehensive audit of Teran’s work is not just warranted; it is essential to restoring public trust in the DA’s office.
The disparity in treatment between Price and others is glaring. Consider LA City Councilmember John Lee, who was implicated in an FBI probe over a lavish Las Vegas trip with disgraced former Councilmember Mitch Englander. While Englander served time in federal prison, Lee avoided criminal charges altogether and now faces only minor ethical violations. Wealthy white individuals like Leslie Moonves, former Chief Executive Officer of CBS Broadcasting, Inc. (CBS), and influential lobbyists who blatantly violate ethics laws are merely fined. Both Lee’s and the lobbyists’ cases are quietly handled by the LA City Ethics Commission, while Black leaders like Price face far more aggressive targeting and public prosecution.
Meanwhile, Price—a steadfast advocate for low-income and immigrant communities—faces felony charges from the DA, allegations that most argue are clearly administrative oversight rather than criminal wrongdoing.
I have a message for DA Hochman: This is your moment to lead with integrity. We, the people, demand a full and thorough review of Teran’s actions and their impact on cases like Price’s.
The future of leaders like Curren Price and the underserved communities they represent hangs in the balance. Will DA Hochman address the double standard undermining justice, or will he let past sins define his tenure?
As we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this month, it’s critical to reflect on the pressing issues facing those falsely accused or unfairly targeted by the justice system. In a nation wrestling with systemic inequities, the fight for justice remains vital, especially now as it is questioned at every level. In Los Angeles, we must confront the injustices in our own backyard and demand accountability.
The ball is in your court, DA Hochman. Black Angelenos—and all who believe in fairness—are watching.
The Rev. William D. Smart Jr. is the Co-Pastor Christ Liberation Ministries & President / CEO of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) of Southern California
