Paul Hastings Guides Los Angeles Sheriff’s Deputy James Sexton Through Obstruction of Justice Trial

May 30, 2014

Los Angeles - Paul Hastings LLP, a leading global law firm, represented Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy James Sexton in a federal obstruction of justice case. Paul Hastings Partner Thomas P. O'Brien led the trial defense of Sexton, which resulted in a mistrial on May 22, after jurors were unable to reach a unanimous verdict.

Mr. Sexton was the first of seven sheriff's officials to be tried on charges of conspiracy and obstruction of justice as Federal prosecutors alleged that Sexton and other deputies were part of the plan to move an inmate working as an FBI informant from jail to jail under various aliases. The trial for six other L.A. County Sheriff’s Department officials whom prosecutors allege were part of the plan to will take place in May 2014.

In defending Sexton, the Paul Hastings defense team emphasized to the jury that Sexton was following orders from the highest levels of the Sheriff’s department; and had only been employed as a Deputy for only three years.

The Paul Hastings team consisted of Los Angeles Partner Thomas P. O'Brien and associates Nicholas J. Begakis, Kathryn Wanner, and Courtney L. Turco.

Paul Hastings is a leading global law firm with a strong presence throughout Asia, Europe, Latin America and the United States. Through a collaborative approach, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to client service, the professionals of Paul Hastings deliver innovative solutions to many of the world’s top financial institutions and Fortune 500 companies.