Attorneys Arrested in Connection With Hip-Hip Mogul Murder Trial
A famous rap producer stands accused of purposely running his truck into two other people on the set of an advertisement for a movie in Southern California in 2015. One of the victims died from the injuries he sustained and the other was injured. Although the defendant claims that he acted in self-defense, security footage shows him plowing his truck into the group of people. He originally fled the scene but later turned himself in to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. In separate cases, the producer is also accused of robbery and threatening the director of the film.
Possible Bribery and Witness Tampering
Two attorneys who previously represented the former hip-hop mogul in his ongoing murder case have been arrested. The two were charged with acting as “accessories after the fact.” Investigators claim to have evidence of possible witness tampering, conspiracy to violate a court order, bribery and obstruction of justice. In August, Los Angeles County prosecutors alleged that the attorneys, along with others, had tampered with witnesses and discussed bribes connected to the musician’s murder case. The attorneys have denied any wrongdoing.
Leaked Surveillance Video
The attorneys accused of these crimes may have difficulty proving their innocence. Prosecutors claim that in a series of recorded phone calls beginning in early 2015, the men discussed paying witnesses to say they saw the victims or others in possession of a gun. This would bolster the musician’s claim of self-defense. Although normally calls between someone and his or her attorney(s) would have been protected by attorney-client privilege, a judge allowed investigators to listen to recordings which involved others. One attorney is also accused of purposefully leaking an extremely important piece of evidence. The surveillance video of incident had been ordered by a judge to not be released to the media.
Responsible Criminal Defense
When a lawyer promises to do “everything possible” to keep a client from being convicted of a crime, the attorney usually means “everything possible while obeying the law.” The two attorneys involved in the situation described above seem to have crossed in dangerous territory with their actions. An attorney who engages in illegal activity places not only himself or herself at risk but also his or her client.
At the Law Offices of Jack L. Zaremba, P.C., we are dedicated to ethically protecting the rights of those accused of a crime. If you are facing criminal charges, you need an attorney who will help you achieve the best outcome on your case while remaining in full compliance with the law and the rules of the court. No matter what type of charges you may be facing, our attorneys are ready to help you navigate your legal options and determine the best course of action for your unique circumstances. Contact the Law Offices of Jack L. Zaremba, P.C. today at 815-740-4025 to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced Will County criminal defense lawyer.