Local News in Brief : Conflict of Interest Trial

Prosecution and defense attorneys gave their opening statements Thursday in the trial of Downey Councilman James S. Santangelo, who is charged with conflict of interest in connection with his 1984 vote to expand the city’s redevelopment district.

Santangelo, 53, owned property in the 386-acre expansion area and in the city’s original redevelopment zone when he cast the deciding vote to approve the expanded district.

Defense attorney Leo B. Newton argued that Santangelo had no conflict of interest because he did not approve specific projects from which he would profit. Newton also argued that Santangelo was only following the advice of then-City Atty. Carl Newton.

Deputy Dist. Atty. Herbert Lapin argued that the expansion was approved to increase property values in the area--including that of Santangelo’s property. Lapin also said Santangelo clearly knew he would benefit from his vote.