"Prosecutors first charged the L.A. City Council member in 2023 with embezzlement, perjury and having a conflict of interest in votes on City Council matters in which his wife stood to benefit. A long-delayed preliminary hearing began this week, where more evidence against Price will be put forth and a judge must decide if prosecutors have enough evidence to proceed. If it moves forward at the current rate, Price's case is almost certain to drag on after he is forced from office by term limits at the end of 2026."
"There are seven candidates running to replace Price in November, including his deputy chief of staff, Jose Ugarte. The crowd trying to upset Ugarte - Price's handpicked successor and the current favorite to win - could seize the moment to shake up the primary field. Ugarte has also faced allegations of unethical behavior for failing to disclose income he made through lobbying and consulting work outside of City Hall."
Curren Price was charged in 2023 with embezzlement, perjury and conflicts of interest tied to City Council votes that could benefit his wife. A long-delayed preliminary hearing is producing more evidence and will determine whether prosecutors have enough to proceed to trial. The hearing is expected to continue for several days and could extend beyond Price's term limit exit in 2026. Price, 75, is unlikely to face prison time even if convicted and is expected to retire from public service at year’s end. The case has political consequences, complicating a crowded race to replace him and spotlighting allegations against his chosen successor, Jose Ugarte.
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