JUDGE SIGNALS INTENT TO VOID CONVICTION OVER LAPD SCANDAL

LOS ANGELES--A federal magistrate judge on Friday indicated that he would
overturn the 1992 drug conviction of a man who alleges that he was framed by
ex-Officer Rafael Perez, the central figure in the LAPD's corruption
scandal.

Esaw Booker served five years in prison based on the testimony of Perez and
two other officers.

At a hearing in federal court, Deputy Dist. Atty. Richard Rosenthal did not
oppose Booker's petition to throw out the conviction.

"Based on the facts that are known at the current time, we lack confidence
in the evidence used to obtain a conviction in this case," Rosenthal said.

Booker, who is on parole because of the conviction, has maintained his
innocence since his arrest. Booker contends that Perez falsely accused him
of being involved in a $20 crack cocaine transaction.

Winston Kevin McKesson, who represents Perez, said his client denies
engaging in any crimes or misconduct before joining the Rampart station
anti-gang unit in 1995.

About a dozen convictions have been overturned since the investigation
began. Dozens more are expected to be thrown out as a result of the tainted
credibility of Perez and potentially other officers.