Nathan Hochman Takes Office as Los Angeles District Attorney, Signaling Shift in Criminal Justice Policies

The newly elected D.A. plans to roll back key reforms by predecessor George Gascón, emphasizing a balanced approach to public safety and justice.

Nathan Hochman, a centrist and former Republican, defeated incumbent George Gascón by nearly 20 points in Los Angeles County's district attorney election.
Hochman plans to reverse several of Gascón’s policies, including bans on the death penalty and sentencing enhancements, while maintaining rare use of capital punishment for cases like school shootings or police killings.
He intends to reintroduce low-level misdemeanor charges for offenses such as trespassing and drug possession but may offer diversion programs for first-time offenders with mental health or addiction issues.
Hochman has announced plans to create task forces addressing homelessness, fentanyl, human trafficking, organized retail crime, and residential burglary, in collaboration with law enforcement and local agencies.
His leadership is expected to improve relations within the D.A.’s office, which had been strained under Gascón, although activists and critics are voicing concerns over potential rollbacks on police accountability.