Prosecutor Misconduct No. 1732822316 - 1227199448

Patricia Lavermicocca

Date of Offense

January 7, 2015

Reporting Authority

This complaint has been forwarded to the State Bar of California

Statement

I am writing to formally lodge a complaint against Deputy District Attorney Patricia Lavermicocca concerning her conduct in my case, CN340479, specifically regarding potential violations of the Brady rule. I was charged with a sex crime in December 2014, a charge I assert is unfounded. Ms. Lavermicocca's handling of my case has been marked by actions that I believe constitute prosecutorial misconduct and Brady violations, denying me a fair trial and due process. Background: In December 2014, I was accused and charged with a sex crime. From the outset, I maintained my innocence and was prepared to return to the United States to contest the charges. However, Ms. Lavermicocca's actions impeded my ability to do so, effectively denying me the opportunity for a fair trial. Specific Allegations: Brady Violations: Ms. Lavermicocca failed to disclose exculpatory evidence related to the alleged victim's credibility and motives. This evidence, which would have been favorable to my defense, was withheld despite my requests for full disclosure.   Ms. Lavermicocca also failed to disclose information about the methods used in the online sting operation, including the specific language and tactics employed by Detective Bellamy, which could have supported my entrapment defense.   Obstruction of Justice: Ms. Lavermicocca prevented me from returning to the United States to defend myself against the charges. This action denied me my constitutional right to a fair trial and due process. Unethical Communication with Legal Counsel: She contacted attorneys with whom I had only preliminary consultations, such as John Rodrigues, without my consent. Additionally, she reached out to Samantha Greene, whom I had retained solely to recall a warrant. These unsolicited communications appear to be attempts to gather information without proper authorization, potentially violating attorney-client privilege. Coercive Plea Bargaining: Ms. Lavermicocca offered a plea deal that required me to plead guilty, fully aware that such a plea would render me permanently inadmissible to the United States. Given her extensive knowledge of immigration law, as evidenced by her contributions to publications like "Using Immigration Law to Protect Human Rights: A Legislative Proposal" by William J. Aceves and Paul L. Hoffman, it is evident that she was aware of the severe immigration consequences of the plea. This action suggests a deliberate attempt to impose additional punitive measures beyond the legal scope of her authority. Misrepresentation of Legal Motions: In response to my motion under Penal Code section 1473.7, which addresses vacating a conviction due to ineffective counsel and unanticipated immigration consequences, Ms. Lavermicocca incorrectly associated my motion with the Racial Justice Act under Penal Code section 745. This misrepresentation indicates either a lack of understanding of the relevant legal statutes or an intentional effort to mislead the court. Furthermore, in a letter to Judge Link dated November 21, 2024, she erroneously asserted that my "Motion to Vacate Conviction or Sentence" under Penal Code section 1473.7(a)(3) was procedurally improper and should have been filed as a writ of habeas corpus. This is demonstrably incorrect, as Penal Code section 1473.7(a)(3) is a separate motion specifically designed for post-judgment challenges under the Racial Justice Act and is not related to habeas corpus. Brady Rule and Prosecutorial Obligations: The Brady rule mandates that prosecutors disclose all evidence that is favorable to the defense, including information that could impeach the credibility of government witnesses. Failure to disclose such evidence constitutes a violation of due process and can lead to the reversal of a conviction. District Attorneys are entrusted with the responsibility to seek justice, uphold the law, and ensure fair treatment for all individuals. Their duties include: Ensuring Fair Trials: Upholding the constitutional rights of defendants, including the right to a fair trial and due process. Ethical Conduct: Maintaining integrity and honesty in all professional interactions, including respecting attorney-client privileges. Impartiality: Making decisions based on evidence and legal standards, free from personal bias or external pressures. Transparency: Providing clear and accurate information to the court and all parties involved. Ms. Lavermicocca's actions, as detailed above, appear to contravene these fundamental responsibilities and constitute Brady violations. Request for Action: In light of the above, I respectfully request the following: Brady List Placement: An investigation into Ms. Lavermicocca's conduct and, if the allegations are substantiated, her placement on the Brady List to prevent future Brady violations. Reassignment of Case: The appointment of a new Deputy District Attorney to handle my case, ensuring no conflicts of interest and adherence to ethical standards. Review of Plea Agreement: An examination of the plea deal offered, considering the undue pressure and misrepresentation involved. Public Disclosure: Transparency in the investigation process and its outcomes to restore public trust in the justice system. I trust that you will address this complaint with the seriousness it warrants. Upholding justice and maintaining public confidence in our legal institutions depend on the ethical conduct of all legal professionals. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your prompt response. Sincerely, Vinod Chandrashekar Rao