Kamala D. Harris

Kamala Harris has not been charged with, indicted for, or convicted of any crimes, corruption, or financial misconduct. Her career has faced public criticism regarding her oversight as a prosecutor and attorney general. Key controversies include: The 2010 crime lab scandal in the San Francisco District Attorney’s office, where a technician tampered with evidence. Harris’s office failed to disclose the technician’s misconduct to defense attorneys, leading to the dismissal of over 600 drug cases. In 2008, the conviction of Jamal Trulove was overturned after an appellate court found police misconduct, resulting in a $13 million settlement paid by the city. During her tenure as Attorney General, her office was criticized by judges for defending convictions involving prosecutorial misconduct, such as the use of false evidence. A sexual harassment settlement of $400,000 was paid by the state to resolve claims against a top aide during her time as Attorney General. Her refusal to seek the death penalty in a 2004 murder case involving a police officer caused significant political friction. She faced criticism for her early career association with then-San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown, with some critics alleging nepotism.