Compton City Attorney “can’t recall” discussing city business

Compton City Attorney Craig Cornwell was subpoenaed by the defense to testify on Michael Kimbrew’s behalf.

With his voice slightly trembling, the City Attorney testified he’s a prosecutor who enforces laws in the city of Compton.  He further explained his office doesn’t issue violation notices to illegal dispensaries,  that falls under the purview of Code Enforcement, which is no longer a division of the City Attorney’s office.

His office does issue notices to landlords asking them to comply with the law by either kicking out the tenant or contacting his office.

Cornwell testified he knew Kimbrew because he worked in an office in City Hall but couldn’t recall whether he discussed city business with Kimbrew.

On cross-examination Cornwell stated Kimbrew was neither asked to go into marijuana shops notifying them that they were out of compliance (as the employees and shop owners testified he did) nor was he to collect any back taxes owed by the illegal business.

Kimbrew did not testify on his own behalf.  The defense rested and presented closing arguments concluding the trial in less than a day.

The defense doesn’t deny Michael Kimbrew accepted $5,000,  however, they do dispute the reasons why.