California Prosecutors' Misconduct Revealed

A study has found that hundreds of prosecutors in California have committed misconduct in handling cases. And authorities have failed to report them or discipline them, according to a Los Angeles Times report.

Researchers at the Santa Clara University law school found that between 1997 and 2009 there were 707 instances when state, federal and appellate courts found misconduct by prosecutors. The report emphasized that most prosecutors follow the law and are ethical. But the study found 67 repeat offenders who committed misconduct in at least two cases. There were three who were found in error in four cases, and two who did so five times.

The researchers are calling for reforms, including requiring courts to forward all findings of misconduct to the state bar.