Prosecutor Reaches Tentative Settlement in Retaliation Suit Involving Former DA Gascón
A veteran prosecutor has tentatively settled his lawsuit against Los Angeles County, alleging he was demoted for bucking former District Attorney George Gascón’s controversial sentencing directives.
Background
Deputy District Attorney Michael K. Matoba alleged in the suit that he was transferred in October 2021 from a high-profile post in the Sex Crimes Unit to a less prestigious job in the Elder Abuse Unit because he informed the court that Gascón’s blanket policy to exclude special circumstance allegations was unlawful.
Claims of Retaliation
Matoba alleged that the transfer was a result of his involvement in prosecuting sexually violent predator Kenneth Kasten Rasmuson for the murders of two 6-year-old boys, Jeffrey Vargo of Anaheim Hills and Miguel Antero of Agoura Hills. According to the lawsuit, Matoba’s motion to drop sentencing enhancements for Rasmuson was opposed by Gascón and his then-chief of staff, Joseph Iniguez.
Tentative Settlement
Beth D. Corriea, an attorney representing Matoba, filed a settlement notice with the court Tuesday indicating that a request to dismiss the suit will be submitted no later than September 1. Terms of the proposed settlement were not disclosed.
Prior Settlements
At least two prosecutors who have sued Gascón have received hefty settlements. Richard Doyle, a former head deputy district attorney who has since retired, received an $800,000 settlement in 2021. Shawn Randolph, a head deputy district attorney, received a $1.5 million settlement in 2023 for her suit alleging a retaliatory transfer from a prestigious position to a "dead-end" job after complaining about juvenile sentencing policies.
Conclusion
The settlement marks another milestone in the ongoing controversy surrounding Gascón’s tenure as DA. The lawsuits filed by Matoba and other prosecutors have alleged widespread retaliation and abuse of power by Gascón and his staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the alleged reason for Matoba’s transfer?
- Matoba alleged that he was transferred for bucking Gascón’s controversial sentencing directives and informing the court that Gascón’s blanket policy to exclude special circumstance allegations was unlawful.
- How many prosecutors have sued Gascón alleging retaliation?
- At least 24 prosecutors have filed lawsuits against Gascón alleging they too faced retaliation for challenging his policies.
- What is the status of the lawsuit?
- A tentative settlement has been reached, and a request to dismiss the suit will be submitted no later than September 1.
- What are the terms of the proposed settlement?
- The terms of the proposed settlement were not disclosed.
