Did An L.A. Police Watchdog Bend Ethical Rules For Jay Mariotti?

The head of the Los Angeles police union has voiced concerns about attorney and LAPD civilian oversight board member Debra Wong Yang's brief representation of Jay Mariotti who, in a no-contest plea deal, saw six misdemeanor counts dropped.

Yang — when identified as Mariotti's attorney — called accusations of a physical confrontation between Mariotti and his girlfriend "inaccurate and sensationalized."

That, said Paul M. Weber, president of the Police Protective League, was enough to create the appearance of a conflict, if not an actual one, for Yang.

"She made statements defending him," Weber said. "Just the appearance of conflict is troubling. She needs to set an example for the rank-and-file officers."

Yang defended her decision. She said Mariotti never received special treatment because of her position, and her comments did not call into question work done by LAPD officers. Citing attorney-client privacy rights, Yang declined to provide details of what work she performed for Mariotti.

Police commissioner's role in Mariotti case raises questions [ LA Times]

Previously: Mariotti Pleads No Contest [ Deadspin] Jay Mariotti "Ripped Something Out Of Her Ear And Shoved Her Around" [ Deadspin]