A Los Angeles City Councilman faces severe charges related to embezzlement and public corruption. Curren Price, a Democrat representing the Ninth District, has been accused of embezzling over $800,000 and improperly benefiting from city contracts. These allegations follow earlier charges in 2023 that included embezzlement of government funds, perjury, and conflicts of interest.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “Embezzling public funds and awarding contracts for your own financial gain is the antithesis of public service.” Hochman’s remarks underscore a commitment to holding elected officials accountable, emphasizing that “self-dealing and pay-to-play politics will not be tolerated in Los Angeles County.”
The latest charges stem from investigations revealing Price’s wife received substantial payments from organizations connected to the city government even as Price voted on contracts benefiting those entities. Court documents indicate that the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles paid over $609,600 to a firm owned by Price’s wife, Del Richardson, during a period when Price supported multimillion-dollar grant applications. Such intricate connections raise serious ethical concerns.
Further complicating matters, Price allegedly embezzled funds intended for city projects to pay for medical benefits for his wife while misrepresenting his marital status. He faces a total of ten felony counts across various charges, including severe breaches of public trust.
Additional evidence, obtained through subpoenas, has led to amended complaints against Price, indicating the depth and complexity of the corruption case. The public expects transparency and integrity from their officials, and these accusations have called that into question.
In his role since 2013, Price’s actions, if proven true, represent a significant violation of public service ethics. The LA District Attorney’s office is pursuing these charges aggressively, aiming to restore public confidence in the integrity of elected officials. This case highlights the necessity of accountability in government and the critical role of oversight in maintaining public trust.
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