Key takeaways:

• Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman reinstates the death penalty policy.
• The shift marks a reversal of former DA George Gascón's prohibition on capital punishment.
• Prosecutors will pursue the death penalty only in "exceedingly rare" cases, such as school shootings or attacks on law enforcement.
• Due to Governor Gavin Newsom's moratorium on executions, practical implications may be limited for the time being.
• Critics argue that reinstating the death penalty exacerbates racial bias in the justice system.

In a significant policy shift, District Attorney Nathan Hochman has decided to reinstate the death penalty in Los Angeles, which was previously banned by his predecessor, George Gascón. This move comes as part of Hochman's commitment to fulfill a major campaign promise, marking a stark change in the approach to capital punishment in one of the nation's largest prosecutorial offices.

Under California law, the death penalty can only be sought in cases involving special circumstances, such as multiple murders or homicides of law enforcement officials. Hochman emphasized that the death penalty will be pursued only in “exceedingly rare cases” and the most egregious offenses, including school shootings and domestic terrorism. "I remain unwaveringly committed to the comprehensive and thorough evaluation of every special circumstance murder case prosecuted in Los Angeles County," Hochman stated in a recent announcement.

The last execution in California occurred in 2016, and Governor Gavin Newsom imposed a moratorium on the death penalty in 2019 as part of his administration's criminal justice reforms. This moratorium remains a significant sticking point, making it unlikely for executions to resume unless the political climate shifts. Critics argue that the death penalty perpetuates racial and socio-economic inequities within the judicial system, pointing to evidence that shows it disproportionately impacts Black and Latino defendants.

Former DA Gascón, a prominent opponent of the death penalty, had publicly criticized its application, arguing that it does not deter crime and disproportionately harms marginalized communities. In response to Hochman's recent policy change, Gascón remarked, "This decision is a step backward for L.A. County," reinforcing calls for criminal justice reform and alternatives to capital punishment. “The death penalty is a cruel and irreversible punishment that is racially biased, and ineffective as a deterrent,” he asserted.

As Hochman's new policy takes effect, the district attorney's office will now provide defense attorneys the opportunity to present mitigating evidence to the newly formed Special Circumstances Committee. This group, led by Chief Deputy Steve Katz, will be responsible for determining when capital punishment should be sought. However, Hochman retains final authority over all death penalty decisions.

California currently holds 592 condemned prisoners, with 206 cases originating from Los Angeles County. The implications of Hochman's decision may shift as public opinion evolves, particularly if future gubernatorial leadership alters the status of the moratorium on executions. For ongoing coverage and details, refer to articles from HuffPost and Newsweek.