Brady disclosures often lead to cases being dismissed and defendants being exonerated. That’s justice in action. Yet in the current political climate, when lies are so often told with impunity, there is now a campaign in San Diego to discredit agencies for keeping Brady lists.
Supreme Court created the “Brady doctrine,” establishing criminal defendants’ right to see all of the evidence in law enforcement’s possession that could be used to exonerate them at trial.
Under state law in California, which is highly protective of law enforcement personnel information, a citizen is not allowed access to a police officer’s personnel files under most circumstances. But under the Brady doctrine, that information can be disclosed for the purpose of ensuring a fair and honest trial.
Over her 27 years as a public lawyer, Attridge has tried hundreds of cases, and for 20 of those years she supervised the Alternative Public Defender’s three branch offices in Vista, Chula Vista and El Cajon.
After 27 years, public defense attorney Mary Ellen Attridge is retiring from the job this week. This photo was taken in the conference room in the Vista office of the Alternate Public Defender, which features mugshots of celebrities -- her idea.
Victim Advocates assist victims from all walks of life and experiences, regardless of age, background, and/or immigration status. All services are free of charge. An advocate can assist you even if a suspect is not identified or if criminal charges have not been filed.
Contact Victim Services. Who Can Get Help. Human Trafficking Resources. If you have been a victim of a crime and need assistance, you can call 619-531-4041. A Victim Advocate will speak with you and determine how we can assist you.
Outpatient mental health treatment or counseling. For direct victims, income losses for up to 5 years following the date of a crime . Up to 30-days of income losses for a parent or legal guardian of a minor victim who has been hospitalized or has died as a result of the crime.
Crime scene cleanup for up to $1,000 as a result of a crime inside a residence or vehicle. Expenses not eligible for State Board claims payments: Lost, damaged, or stolen personal property, except medically necessary replacement of items such as eyeglasses, hearing aids, and medical equipment. Legal fees.