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Civil & Criminal Aspects? City Council Discussing Possible Lawsuit to Recoup Cost of Michael Jackson Memorial
City Attorney Carmen Trutanich announced this afternoon in a session of City Council that his investigation into tax payer money being used for the Michael Jackson Memorial has revealed "civil and criminal aspects." He would not speak publicly about details, including a lawsuit's target, but offered to go into closed session about the civil aspects. City Council agreed and went to the back chambers to discuss at 12:30 p.m. As this publishing, they are still in closed session.
"Our investigation has taken an unanticipated turn that raises both civil and criminal aspects," Trutanich read from a prepared statement. "Ethical considerations and the need to protect the integrity of the investigation prevent me from discussing the criminal investigation. I do want to publicly discuss any matters that could potentially jeopardize the effectiveness of our ongoing investigation. In regards to the civil litigation, rest assured that before I file any lawsuit to recoup tax payers costs, I will confer with you in closed session to brief you and to obtain your concurrence on any decision that is made."
Trutanich said he has been in contact with the lawyer for the Staples Center. He also will be bringing forth new measures that will protect tax payer money on future large events. "In these difficult times for the city I look forward to working with each of you to protect and recover taxpayer dollars in our limited city resources."
Update: Council went back into session at 1:43 p.m. Councilmember Dennis Zine requested to consolidate four Michael Jackson Memorial related motions.
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