News Releases

May 10, 2022: District Attorney Gascón to Convene Roundtable to Address Security Issues at Concert Venues, Misinformation

Contact: 
Ricardo Santiago
(213) 257-2000
RSantiago@da.lacounty.gov

Click here for Chappelle Case Referral.

Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced plans today to convene a roundtable comprised of stakeholders to address security measures for the safety of performers, their fans and venue staff, and he addressed misinformation in connection with the attack on comedian Dave Chappelle.

“We all have a right to feel safe when we’re attending these events,” District Attorney Gascón said. “We will ensure that safety measures are taken to protect performers so that Los Angeles can continue to be a hub for music, comedy and other artistic performances in this country.”

Pointing to the unsolved murder of Darrell Wayne Caldwell, known as Drakeo the Ruler, at a music festival at the Banc of California Stadium last December, the death of 10 concertgoers at NRG Park in Houston last November and the recent attack on Mr. Chappelle at the Hollywood Bowl, District Attorney Gascón said it’s clear something has to be done.   

To that end, the District Attorney’s Office is convening a roundtable consisting of stakeholders from venues, security companies, law enforcement and the District Attorney’s Office to develop a plan to continue to make safety a priority.

The District Attorney also explained why the Chappelle case was referred to the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office for misdemeanor filing.

Among the reasons, District Attorney Gascón highlighted:

  • The District Attorney’s Office does not have jurisdiction to file a misdemeanor case within the City of Los Angeles.
  • The incident, which was captured on video, did not meet the elements of any felony under California law.
  • Replay of that video revealed the man, Mr. Isaiah Lee, was not holding or using any weapon when he tackled Mr. Chappelle.
  • Security quickly separated the two men and Mr. Chappelle was not injured.
  • Although police later found a folding knife on the man, the blade of the knife was always folded while in his possession.
  • Under California law, this set of facts does not constitute a felony.