Police Misconduct and Your Rights in Anaheim Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on November 13, 2024 Anaheim residents deserve protection from police misconduct. Sadly, violations can happen. Knowing your rights helps you stand up against injustice. Understanding Police Misconduct Police misconduct occurs when law enforcement officials act outside the law. This can lead to serious violations of individual rights. Examples of Police Misconduct in Anaheim Excessive Force: Applying unnecessary force during arrests. Illegal Detention: Holding individuals without legal cause. Discriminatory Practices: Targeting individuals based on race or background. Your Rights in Anaheim You have rights that law enforcement must respect, including: The right to remain silent. The right to refuse a search without a warrant. The right to speak with an attorney. What to Do if You Experience Misconduct Document the Incident: Take notes on what happened immediately. File a Complaint: Report the incident to the Anaheim Police Department. Consult a Lawyer: Reach out to Jerry L. Steering for legal assistance. If you face police misconduct in Anaheim, take action. Call Jerry L. Steering at (949) 474-1849 or email Mr. Steering at jerry@steeringlaw.com.
Police Misconduct and Your Rights in Santa Ana Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on November 6, 2024 Residents of Santa Ana expect fair treatment from law enforcement. Yet, instances of police misconduct can arise. Understanding your rights is crucial. What Constitutes Police Misconduct? Police misconduct covers various illegal actions taken by officers that violate personal rights. This can lead to community distrust and harm. Examples of Police Misconduct in Santa Ana Use of Excessive Force: When officers use more force than necessary. False Arrests: Detaining individuals without just cause. Racial Profiling: Discriminatory targeting based on personal characteristics. Your Rights in Santa Ana In Santa Ana, your rights include: The right to remain silent. The right to decline a search without consent or a warrant. The right to legal counsel if questioned. Steps to Take if You Encounter Police Misconduct Document Everything: Keep detailed notes of the encounter. File a Complaint: Report misconduct to the Santa Ana Police Department. Seek Legal Help: Contact Jerry L. Steering for expert guidance. If you experience police misconduct in Santa Ana, know your rights. Call Jerry L. Steering at (949) 474-1849 or email Mr. Steering at jerry@steeringlaw.com.
Police Brutality and Your Rights in Long Beach Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on October 30, 2024 Long Beach residents deserve law enforcement that upholds their rights. Unfortunately, police misconduct can occur. Understanding your rights is vital. Understanding Police Misconduct Police misconduct includes actions by officers that violate civil rights. These violations can damage community trust. Examples of Police Misconduct in Long Beach Excessive Force: Using more force than necessary in confrontations. Unlawful Searches: Conducting searches without legal authority. Improper Treatment: Engaging in discriminatory practices. Know Your Rights In Long Beach, you have rights that protect you, including: The right to remain silent. The right to refuse unwarranted searches. The right to legal representation. Actions to Take if You Face Misconduct Document the Incident: Keep records of the event. File a Complaint: Report the misconduct to the Long Beach Police Department. Consult an Attorney: Reach out to Jerry L. Steering for legal assistance. If you face police misconduct in Long Beach, act swiftly. Call Jerry L. Steering at (949) 474-1849 or email Mr. Steering at jerry@steeringlaw.com.
Police Misconduct and Your Rights in East Los Angeles Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on October 23, 2024 Residents of East Los Angeles deserve fair treatment from law enforcement. Instances of police misconduct can happen. Knowing your rights is key to protection. Defining Police Misconduct Police misconduct refers to actions that violate individuals’ rights. These actions can have serious implications for victims. Examples of Police Misconduct in East Los Angeles Brutality: Use of excessive force by officers. False Imprisonment: Holding individuals without cause. Bias in Enforcement: Discrimination based on race or ethnicity. Your Rights in East Los Angeles You hold rights that protect you, including: The right to remain silent during interactions with police. The right to refuse searches without a warrant. The right to seek legal counsel. Steps to Take if Misconduct Occurs Document Everything: Write down details about the encounter. File a Complaint: Report the misconduct to local authorities. Consult a Lawyer: Contact Jerry L. Steering for support. If you experience police misconduct in East Los Angeles, take action. Call Jerry L. Steering at (949) 474-1849 or email Mr. Steering at jerry@steeringlaw.com.
Police Misconduct and Your Rights in San Bernardino Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on October 16, 2024 San Bernardino residents deserve law enforcement that respects their rights. Sadly, police misconduct can occur. Knowing your rights is essential. What is Police Misconduct? Police misconduct encompasses illegal actions taken by officers that infringe on personal rights. This behavior can harm individuals and communities. Examples of Police Misconduct in San Bernardino Excessive Force: Using unnecessary force during arrests. Unlawful Detention: Holding individuals without just cause. Racial Profiling: Discriminatory targeting by officers. Your Rights in San Bernardino You have specific rights that protect you against misconduct, including: The right to remain silent. The right to refuse a search without legal justification. The right to legal representation. Actions to Take if You Encounter Misconduct Document the Incident: Keep detailed notes about what occurred. File a Complaint: Report the incident to the San Bernardino Police Department. Seek Legal Help: Contact Jerry L. Steering for guidance. If you experience police misconduct in San Bernardino, take steps to protect yourself. Call Jerry L. Steering at (949) 474-1849 or email Mr. Steering at jerry@steeringlaw.com.
Police Brutality and Your Rights in Rancho Cucamonga Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on October 9, 2024 Residents of Rancho Cucamonga deserve fair treatment from law enforcement. Instances of police misconduct can happen. Understanding your rights helps ensure protection. Understanding Police Misconduct Police misconduct includes actions by officers that violate individual rights. This can lead to significant harm for victims and communities. Examples of Police Misconduct in Rancho Cucamonga Excessive Force: Applying more force than necessary during encounters. Illegal Searches: Conducting searches without warrants or probable cause. Bias: Targeting individuals based on race or ethnicity. Your Rights in Rancho Cucamonga You have rights designed to protect you, including: The right to remain silent during police encounters. The right to refuse consent for searches without warrants. The right to legal representation if detained. Steps to Take if You Experience Misconduct Document Everything: Write down all details immediately. File a Complaint: Report misconduct to the Rancho Cucamonga Police Department. Contact an Attorney: Reach out to Jerry L. Steering for support. If you face police misconduct in Rancho Cucamonga, know your rights. Call Jerry L. Steering at (949) 474-1849 or email Mr. Steering at jerry@steeringlaw.com.
Newport Beach Police Misconduct Posted by Ron Morgan on September 9, 2024 Police misconduct is a pressing concern that impacts communities across the nation, including the beautiful city of Newport Beach. As residents of this coastal gem, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the legal options available to you should you find yourself facing police misconduct. At Steering Law, we are committed to empowering you with knowledge about police misconduct and providing the support you need to seek justice. What Constitutes Police Misconduct? Police misconduct involves actions taken by law enforcement officers that violate individuals’ rights while performing their duties. This misconduct can take many forms, and it’s essential to recognize what behaviors fall under this category. Common types of police misconduct include: Excessive Force: This occurs when officers use more physical force than necessary to subdue or control a person. Examples of excessive force in Orange County include incidents where officers have used tasers or physical restraint techniques in situations that did not warrant such actions. False Arrest: Law enforcement must have probable cause to detain an individual. False arrests can happen when officers arrest someone without sufficient evidence or a warrant. For instance, in recent years, several individuals in Orange County have reported being detained without clear justification. Unlawful Search and Seizure: Under the Fourth Amendment, individuals are protected from unreasonable searches and seizures. Incidents of unlawful search and seizure have been reported in Newport Beach and surrounding areas, where officers conducted searches without obtaining the necessary warrants. Abuse of Power: Misuse of authority can manifest in various forms, such as racial profiling or harassment. Reports of officers targeting individuals based on their appearance rather than any actual evidence have surfaced, highlighting the need for accountability. False Statements or Evidence: Officers may provide misleading information in reports or during investigations, potentially leading to wrongful accusations. There have been cases in Orange County where officers submitted false information to justify their actions, resulting in severe consequences for innocent individuals. Recognizing the Signs of Police Misconduct Understanding how to identify police misconduct is vital. Here are some signs that your rights may have been violated: Inconsistencies in Police Reports: If there are discrepancies between what an officer claims occurred and what witnesses or evidence show, this may suggest misconduct. Physical Injuries: If you sustain injuries during an encounter with law enforcement that seem excessive or unwarranted for the situation, this could indicate the use of excessive force. Lack of Transparency: If an officer refuses to provide their name, badge number, or reason for their actions, it can be a sign of misconduct. Witness Testimonies: Statements from bystanders can provide crucial evidence that supports claims of police misconduct. In Newport Beach, gathering such testimonies can strengthen your case significantly. Your Rights in Newport Beach As a resident of Newport Beach, you have specific rights when interacting with law enforcement: Right to Remain Silent: You are not obligated to answer questions posed by officers. It’s important to exercise this right if you believe your answers may be used against you. Right to Legal Counsel: You have the right to consult with an attorney before speaking to law enforcement. Having legal representation can help protect your rights and ensure fair treatment. Right to File Complaints: If you believe your rights have been violated, you can file a formal complaint with the Newport Beach Police Department or the internal affairs division. Right to Pursue Legal Action: Victims of police misconduct have the right to pursue legal action against the officer or police department responsible for the violation. Legal Recourse for Victims of Police Misconduct If you believe you have experienced police misconduct in Newport Beach, several legal avenues are available: Civil Rights Lawsuits: You may file a civil rights lawsuit against the police department or individual officers for damages related to the misconduct. This could include compensation for physical injuries, emotional distress, and other related damages. Internal Complaints: Filing a complaint can lead to an internal investigation and potential disciplinary action against the officer involved. Criminal Prosecution: In cases of severe misconduct, such as excessive force or false arrests, you may be able to pursue criminal charges against the offending officer. How Steering Law Can Help At Steering Law, our team is dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals who have experienced police misconduct. We understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to seeking justice for our clients. Here’s how we can assist you: Free Case Evaluation: We offer a no-obligation consultation to discuss your situation and determine the best course of action for your case. Thorough Investigation: Our attorneys conduct comprehensive investigations, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing police reports to build a strong case on your behalf. Experienced Representation: With extensive experience in handling police misconduct cases, we fight tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process. Personalized Approach: We provide tailored legal counsel based on your specific circumstances, ensuring you receive the attention and support you deserve. What to Expect During the Legal Process Navigating the legal process can be daunting, but we are here to guide you every step of the way. Here’s what you can expect: Initial Consultation: During your free case evaluation, we will review the details of your situation and advise you on your legal options. Investigation: We will gather essential evidence, including police reports, medical records, and witness statements, to build a solid case. Negotiation: We may engage in negotiations with the involved parties to reach a settlement that compensates you for your damages. Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, we will proceed with litigation, presenting your case in court and advocating on your behalf. Get the Legal Support You Need Experiencing police misconduct in Newport Beach can be a distressing and overwhelming ordeal. It’s crucial to have an experienced legal team on your side to help navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure your rights are protected. Ready to take the next step? Contact Steering Law today for your Free Case Evaluation. Our dedicated attorneys are here to provide the support and representation you need to seek justice. Call us at 800-558-3664 or complete our online contact form to get started. Don’t let police misconduct go unchecked—let us help you hold those responsible accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.
Are You a Victim of Police Misconduct? Your Rights and Legal Options in Irvine Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on September 2, 2024 Police misconduct is an urgent issue that affects residents in Irvine and throughout Orange County. Trust in law enforcement is essential for a safe community, and when that trust is violated, it can have devastating effects. This page aims to inform you about your rights regarding police misconduct in Irvine and how the experienced legal team at Steering Law can assist you in seeking justice. What Constitutes Police Misconduct? Police misconduct encompasses a wide range of inappropriate actions taken by law enforcement officers while performing their duties. In Irvine, residents must be aware of the various forms that misconduct can take: Excessive Force: This occurs when an officer uses more physical force than necessary. Examples in Orange County include instances where officers used tasers or physical restraint methods without justification, leading to serious injuries. False Arrest: Arresting individuals without legal justification is a serious violation. Reports from Orange County have highlighted several cases where individuals were detained without probable cause or a warrant. Unlawful Search and Seizure: Officers must adhere to constitutional rights. Incidents in Irvine have involved officers conducting searches without proper warrants, violating individuals’ Fourth Amendment rights. Abuse of Power: Misusing authority can manifest in various ways, including racial profiling or harassment. For example, there have been claims against law enforcement in Orange County where officers engaged in discriminatory practices against minority communities. False Statements or Evidence: Providing misleading information or fabricating evidence can severely impact the outcome of a case. In Orange County, there have been documented instances where police reports were found to contain false statements, undermining public trust. Recognizing the Signs of Police Misconduct Identifying police misconduct can be difficult, but being aware of certain signs can help you protect your rights: Inconsistencies in Police Reports: If you notice discrepancies between the officer’s account and your own or other witnesses’ statements, it may suggest misconduct. Visible Injuries: If you have suffered injuries that appear to be excessive given the circumstances, it is crucial to document this evidence. Unwillingness to Identify: If an officer refuses to provide their name or badge number when asked, it raises concerns about their conduct. Witnesses: Statements from bystanders who witnessed the incident can provide vital support for your case. Your Rights in the Face of Police Misconduct As a resident of Irvine, you have specific rights when interacting with law enforcement: Right to Remain Silent: You are not obligated to answer questions posed by officers. This right is crucial, especially if you believe your responses could incriminate you. Right to Legal Counsel: If you are being questioned or detained, you have the right to consult with an attorney before making any statements. Right to File Complaints: If you believe your rights have been violated, you can file a formal complaint with the Irvine Police Department’s internal affairs division. Right to Pursue Legal Action: Victims of police misconduct have the right to seek compensation for damages and hold the responsible parties accountable through civil suits. Legal Recourse for Victims of Police Misconduct If you believe you have been a victim of police misconduct in Irvine, several legal avenues are available to you: Civil Rights Lawsuits: You may file a civil rights lawsuit against the officer or police department for damages incurred due to misconduct. This can cover physical injuries, emotional distress, and other related damages. Internal Complaints: Filing a complaint can lead to internal investigations and potential disciplinary actions against the officer involved. Criminal Prosecution: In cases of severe misconduct, such as excessive force or false arrest, pursuing criminal charges against the officer may be an option. Recent Examples of Police Misconduct in Orange County While police officers are sworn to protect and serve, there have been notable cases of misconduct in Orange County that illustrate the need for vigilance: Taser Incidents: In several cases across Orange County, officers used tasers on individuals who were non-threatening, leading to serious injuries and raising concerns about excessive force. Racial Profiling: Reports have surfaced highlighting instances of racial profiling where individuals were stopped and questioned without any probable cause, leading to allegations of systemic bias within some police departments. Failure to Provide Medical Aid: There have been documented cases where officers failed to provide necessary medical assistance to individuals in custody who were clearly in need, resulting in severe consequences. These examples underscore the importance of knowing your rights and taking action if you experience misconduct. How Steering Law Can Help At Steering Law, we are committed to advocating for individuals who have experienced police misconduct. Our legal team understands the complexities of these cases and is prepared to help you seek justice. Our services include: Free Case Evaluation: We provide a no-obligation case evaluation to discuss your situation and determine the best course of action. Thorough Investigation: Our team conducts detailed investigations, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing police reports to build a strong case on your behalf. Experienced Representation: With extensive experience in handling police misconduct cases, our attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for your compensation. Personalized Approach: We offer tailored legal counsel to meet your specific needs and circumstances, ensuring you receive the support you deserve. What to Expect During the Legal Process Navigating the legal landscape after experiencing police misconduct can be complex. Here’s what you can expect when you work with us: Initial Consultation: During your free case evaluation, we will review the details of your case and discuss your legal options. Investigation: We will gather evidence, including police reports, medical records, and witness statements, to strengthen your case. Negotiation: We may engage in negotiations with the involved parties to reach a fair settlement that compensates you for your damages. Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, we will advocate for you in court, presenting your case and ensuring your rights are upheld. Get the Legal Support You Need Experiencing police misconduct in Irvine can be a traumatic and disorienting experience. It’s crucial to have a dedicated legal team by your side to navigate the complexities of the legal system and protect your rights. Are you ready to take the next step? Contact Steering Law today for your Free Case Evaluation. Our committed attorneys are here to provide the support and representation you need to seek justice. Call us at 800-558-3664 or complete our Online Contact Form to get started. Don’t allow police misconduct to go unchallenged—let us help you hold those responsible accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Police Misconduct: Your Rights and Legal Options in Lake Forest Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on August 26, 2024 Police misconduct is a critical issue that can deeply impact individuals and communities. In Lake Forest, where trust in law enforcement is paramount, it’s essential to understand your rights and the legal avenues available if you encounter police misconduct. This blog will guide you through the nuances of police misconduct, your rights as a citizen, and how our experienced legal team at Steering Law can assist you in seeking justice. What Constitutes Police Misconduct? Police misconduct refers to inappropriate or illegal actions taken by law enforcement officers while performing their duties. Misconduct can vary widely but generally falls into several categories: Excessive Force: Using more physical force than necessary to subdue or control a person. This can include physical violence or threats that go beyond what is reasonable under the circumstances. False Arrest: Detaining an individual without legal justification. This can occur when an officer arrests someone without a warrant or probable cause. Unlawful Search and Seizure: Conducting searches or seizures without proper legal authority, violating an individual’s Fourth Amendment rights. Abuse of Power: Engaging in actions that misuse an officer’s authority, such as harassment or discrimination. False Statements or Evidence: Providing misleading or false information, either verbally or in written reports, to cover up misconduct or support a false charge. Recognizing the Signs of Police Misconduct Identifying police misconduct can be challenging, but some signs can indicate that your rights may have been violated: Inconsistencies in Police Reports: Discrepancies between the officer’s account and other evidence or witness statements may suggest misconduct. Injury or Unusual Force: Evidence of physical harm or use of force that seems excessive for the situation. Lack of Transparency: If an officer is unwilling to provide their badge number, name, or reason for their actions, it may indicate misconduct. Witness Testimonies: Statements from bystanders who observed the incident can provide crucial evidence. Your Rights in the Face of Police Misconduct As a resident of Lake Forest, you have specific rights when dealing with law enforcement: Right to Remain Silent: You are not required to answer questions or make statements to law enforcement officers. Exercise this right if you feel your responses could be used against you. Right to Legal Counsel: If you are being questioned or detained, you have the right to speak with an attorney before answering any questions. Right to File Complaints: You can file a formal complaint with the police department’s internal affairs division or civilian oversight board if you believe your rights have been violated. Right to Pursue Legal Action: If you have been the victim of police misconduct, you may pursue legal action to seek compensation for damages and hold the responsible parties accountable. Legal Recourse for Victims of Police Misconduct If you believe you have been a victim of police misconduct in Lake Forest, several legal avenues are available: Civil Rights Lawsuits: You may file a civil rights lawsuit against the officer or police department for damages resulting from the misconduct. This can include compensation for physical injuries, emotional distress, and other related damages. Internal Complaints: Filing a complaint with the police department can lead to an internal investigation and potential disciplinary action against the officer involved. Criminal Prosecution: In cases of severe misconduct, such as excessive force or false arrest, it may be possible to pursue criminal charges against the officer. How Steering Law Can Help At Steering Law, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals who have experienced police misconduct. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to seeking justice for our clients. Our Services Include: Free Case Evaluation: We offer a no-obligation case evaluation to discuss your situation and determine the best course of action. Thorough Investigation: We conduct a detailed investigation into your case, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing police reports. Experienced Representation: Our attorneys have extensive experience in handling police misconduct cases and will fight tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected. Personalized Approach: We provide personalized legal counsel tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. What to Expect During the Legal Process Navigating the legal process for police misconduct cases can be complex. Here’s what you can expect: Initial Consultation: During your free case evaluation, we will review the details of your case and advise you on your legal options. Investigation: We will gather evidence, including police reports, medical records, and witness statements, to build a strong case. Negotiation: We may engage in negotiations with the involved parties to reach a settlement that compensates you for your damages. Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, we will proceed with litigation, presenting your case in court and advocating on your behalf. Get the Legal Support You Need Experiencing Lake Forest police misconduct can be a traumatic and confusing experience. It’s crucial to have an experienced legal team on your side to help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure your rights are protected. Ready to take the next step? Contact Steering Law today for your Free Case Evaluation. Our dedicated attorneys are here to provide the support and representation you need to seek justice. Call us at 800-558-3664 or complete our online contact form to get started. Don’t let police misconduct go unchecked—let us help you hold those responsible accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.
Mr. Steering Obtains “Sweetheart Deal” For Deputies’ Misconduct Posted by Jerry L. Steering, Esq. on January 27, 2018 Prosecutors Agree To 3-Year Sentence, Not Life, After Defendant Claims Illegal Use Of Snitches By KELLY PUENTE | kpuente@scng.com | Orange County Register PUBLISHED: January 25, 2018 at 6:48 pm | UPDATED: January 26, 2018 at 10:51 am A man who faced a possible life term in prison if convicted of killing his grandmother, will get out immediately, after three years in jail, as part of a plea deal agreed to Thursday by Orange County prosecutors. The deal marks at least the eighth high-profile murder or attempted murder case to result in a reduced sentence after allegations that local prosecutors and sheriff’s deputies misused jailhouse informants. Michael Wesley Baker, 35, had long been suspected in the death of his grandmother, Sara Mowrey, who disappeared from her Laguna Niguel assisted living home in January 2009. But as part of the deal struck Thursday Baker pleaded guilty to a single count of being an accessory after the fact, and a single count of solicitation to commit murder, according to court records. The original charge against Baker included murder with three counts of solicitation to commit murder. If convicted of those charges he faced more than 100 years to life in prison. The plea was reached after Baker accused Orange County law enforcement of illegally using long-time jailhouse informants, Raymond “Puppet” Cuevas and Jose “Bouncer” Peredes, to threaten him while he was in custody. Baker, in court documents, also accused two sheriff’s deputies of threatening to kill his father if he did not confess to undercover officers. Baker did not admit guilt Thursday but acknowledged that authorities had sufficient evidence to convict him. He will not have to serve probation or parole and was expected to be out of custody on time served by early (Friday), said his lawyer Jerry Steering. “If there ever was a sweetheart deal offered to a criminal defendant in Orange County Superior Court, this is it,” Steering said. “(Baker) is a free man now.” Prosecutors said Thursday that the plea had nothing to do with informants. Instead, they said, the case against Baker would be “challenging to prove.” “We evaluated our position and decided in light of all the circumstances, this was the best outcome,” said Michelle Van Der Linden, spokeswoman for the Orange County District Attorney’s Office. Van Der Linden pointed out that the victim’s body was never recovered and that the alleged crime took place nearly a decade ago, both factors that would make it tough to get a conviction. “Since that time, we have re-evaluated some of the evidence gathered and determined we were likely to lose critical evidence… and if evidence were to be suppressed, we may not (have been) able to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt.” But the decision to drop the case against Baker — who had been investigated since 2009 and in jail for three years — also came less than a month after Steering filed paperwork detailing his client’s accusations against investigators. According to court documents, Baker said he was forced to give incriminating statements in the Mowrey case while in custody on an unrelated crime, five years ago. Baker said Orange County Sheriff’s Deputies Benjamin Garcia and William Grover threatened to kill his father — William Warren Baker — who at the time was in prison for running a real-estate Ponzi scheme and cashing his mother’s Social Security checks after he had reported her missing. Garcia and Grover are two of several local deputies caught up in the county’s informant scandal. Sheriff records show that for years deputies ran a network of jailhouse informants who coaxed evidence from accused criminals, and that prosecutors used that information to gain convictions — a practice decried in at least two court rulings. Over the past two years both deputies have invoked their Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination when called to testify in cases connected to informants. Baker’s lawyer, Steering, said he believes prosecutors agreed to the deal as a way to hide details of their investigatory tactics. “They get a cold case and, if they don’t have anything on anybody, they create their own facts,” Steering said. Prosecutors disagree. Deputy District Attorney Seton Hunt, writing in response to Steering’s motion, described Baker’s allegations as “outrageous” and “bizarre.” “Defendant is clearly attempting to exploit this situation by hoping this court engages in improper speculation regarding these deputies’ (Fifth Amendment statements),” Hunt wrote. Hunt also told the court that prosecutors planned to use “voluntary statements that (Baker) made to undercover officers who posed as inmates before he was formally charged.” Steering said the informants, Cuevas and Peredes, were paid up to $1,500 each, per day, for getting information from Baker. Court records in other cases show that Cuevas and Peredes — both former Mexican Mafia leaders — were paid more than $335,000 over a four-year window for work as informants throughout Southern California, though the documents do not detail amounts paid for specific cases. In court documents Baker also claimed that an undercover officer masqueraded as an attorney to entrap him to commit a crime — an allegation also flatly denied by Hunt. Instead, Hunt wrote in response to Baker’s allegation that an undercover officer pretended to be a legal assistant who offered to connect Baker with the services of a hit man, allegedly to help him cover up the murder of Mowrey. That ruse was not illegal, Hunt argued, because “defendant does not have a right to seek the services of a hit man and a person acting as conduit to the services of a hit-man is not an attorney.” At least one family member, related to both Mowrey and Baker, said Thursday that she was “devastated” by the deal that lets Baker go free. “Nine years is a long time to live without knowing what happened to your mother,” said Leanne Loudin, Mowrey’s daughter and Baker’s aunt. Loudin, who described Mowrey as a loving mother and a former Orange County court clerk, believes Baker killed Mowrey. “There isn’t any justice for mother, and that’s the thing that really hurts.” Mowrey was reported missing from her assisted living home on Jan. 13, 2009, leaving behind her hearing aid, walker, medication and purse. Baker was reportedly the last person to see her alive the previous night. Investigators suspect that Baker killed her and disposed of her body in a nearby trash bin, but her body was never found. Officials said Baker also later tried to solicit undercover deputies to kill a person who had witnessed him trying to get rid of the body. Baker was arrested and charged with murder in September, 2014. Though Baker’s allegations against deputies were disputed by local prosecutors, it wasn’t the first time he’s accused investigators of lying. And, in a previous case, evidence backed his claim. In 2009, eight months after Mowrey went missing, Baker was arrested on suspicion of burglary at a Laguna Niguel home. He told deputies he was in the area looking for a friend because he had run out of gas. He was charged in part because deputies said they didn’t check to see if his car was operational. But footage taken by a dash-cam video player showed a deputy checking Baker’s car and learning it was, indeed, unable to start, as Baker claimed. Prosecutors eventually dropped the charge. Staff writer Tony Saavedra contributed to this report.