Nathan Hochman, the soon-to-take-office district attorney of Los Angeles County, has recently disclosed his new approach to law enforcement. In an interview with The Associated Press, Hochman shared his plans to dismantle the existing legal policies, which he described as the “pro-criminal blanket policies” implemented by outgoing DA George Gascón. His vision to establish law and order in the country reflects a significant shift in the criminal justice reforms formed during Gascón’s tenure.
Hochman will primarily focus on restoring sentencing enhancements for gang-related crimes because he believes they are a necessary deterrent. He also plans to give more freedom to prosecutors when handling juvenile cases and insists on resuming the practice of attending parole hearings with victims’ families.
Tackling Low-Level Crimes
Hochman will also emphasize prosecuting low-level, nonviolent offenses. Crimes such as criminal threats, trespassing, loitering, and disturbing the peace have often been overlooked under Gascón’s administration. According to Hochman, neglecting these offenses has contributed to a “culture of lawlessness” in Los Angeles, particularly among homeless communities.
“Anyone who breaks the law will receive ‘proportional’ consequences—no more ‘get out of jail free’ cards,” Hochman asserted. His aim is not to fill prisons indiscriminately but to ensure that justice is served consistently. He wants to send a clear message that the law will be enforced, and consequences will follow.
Alternatives to Incarceration Remain a Priority
Despite his emphasis on accountability, Hochman is not abandoning the existing reformist principles entirely. He highlighted the need for alternatives to incarceration, such as court-mandated drug treatment, community service, and restitution. He believes these options can offer effective deterrence without unnecessarily swelling prison populations. “This is my message to people who believe in criminal justice reform: I believe in it as well,” Hochman said. “The difference between myself and my predecessor is it won’t be a bunch of talk.”
Rising Discontent with Progressive Policies
The majority believe that Hochman becoming Los Angeles County’s top prosecutor is a result of the growing dissatisfaction among people regarding the policies of progressive district attorneys like Gascón. Although Gascón has been a prominent figure in the criminal justice reform movement, he made headlines when he eliminated cash bail and reduced charges for juveniles. These decisions drew criticism from those who felt they were too lenient, especially when property crime, homelessness, and the drug crisis are rising.
In recent years, viral videos of smash-and-grab thefts have influenced voter sentiment. Hochman’s victory is seen as a mandate to return to what he calls “commonsense” enforcement, a stance reinforced by California’s recent passing of Proposition 36. The measure allows prosecutors to pursue felony charges for shoplifting and drug offenses after a third violation, marking a return to stricter consequences for repeat offenders.
A Return to 2014: A Safer LA
Hochman is on a mission to restore Los Angeles to what he called its safest year in recent memory, 2014. That year, he noted, was considered the most secure in the region in the past half-century. He hopes that consistent enforcement will act as a deterrent, preventing crimes before they happen. “The goal is ultimately to deter them from committing the crimes in the first place,” Hochman explained.
New Programs Offering Insight into Reform
As part of his strategy, Hochman recently spent time observing the “homeless court” program in Hermosa Beach. With this program, homeless people will get a chance to avoid prosecution for minor offenses by participating in judge-mandated services. Hochman expressed optimism about the program’s potential, saying, “I thought it was a really innovative way to try and deal with low-level homeless crime.”
Looking Forward To Challenges
With just weeks before he officially takes office, Hochman is preparing to lead a team of more than 700 prosecutors in the nation’s largest county. His victory marks a pivotal moment, as it is set to redefine the direction of criminal justice in Los Angeles. While critics remain wary of a potential rollback of progressive gains, Hochman insists his administration will focus on balanced and effective enforcement.
As the county awaits his leadership, Hochman strives to ensure that lawbreakers face genuine consequences while offering reform for those willing to change.
