LA Councilman Curren Price to Stand Trial on Felony Corruption Charges

Judge rules there is sufficient evidence for Price to face 12 felony counts, including embezzlement and conflict of interest.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 8:55am

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Los Angeles City Councilman Curren Price, a Democrat representing the city's 9th District, will stand trial on 12 felony corruption charges after a judge ruled that prosecutors presented enough evidence during a preliminary hearing. The charges include embezzlement of government funds, conflict of interest, and perjury.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about public corruption and abuse of power by elected officials. As a sitting city council member, Price is accused of using his position to enrich himself and his family at the expense of his constituents, raising questions about accountability and transparency in local government.

The details

Prosecutors allege that Price improperly voted on city projects that financially benefited his wife, failed to disclose those conflicts of interest, embezzled approximately $33,800 in city funds, and used his position to award city lease agreements and COVID-19 grants to a nonprofit where he served as CEO.

  • In 2023, Price was initially charged with 10 felony counts.
  • In August 2025, an amended complaint added two more felony conflict of interest counts.
  • On January 29, 2026, a judge ruled that there is sufficient evidence for Price to stand trial on all 12 felony charges.

The players

Curren Price

A Los Angeles city council member representing the 9th District, who is accused of felony corruption charges including embezzlement, conflict of interest, and perjury.

Nathan Hochman

The Los Angeles County District Attorney, who said the case is a significant step toward holding Price accountable for alleged corruption.

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What they’re saying

“This is a significant step toward holding L.A. Councilmember Curren Price accountable for years of alleged corruption.”

— Nathan Hochman, Los Angeles County District Attorney

What’s next

Price's arraignment is scheduled for March 13, 2026. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 11 years and 4 months, including up to 9 years and 4 months in state prison.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges of rooting out public corruption, even among elected officials entrusted to serve their constituents. It underscores the importance of robust oversight, transparency, and accountability measures to ensure that those in positions of power are acting in the best interests of the community.