Economic Crimes Division
The Economic Crimes Division prosecutes economic-related crimes, which harm individuals and businesses in San Diego County. The unit is led by division Chief Stephen Robinson and Assistant Chief Nida Rice. Real estate fraud schemes and identity theft cases continued to generate significant work for the division and contributed to 160 defendants being sentenced to prison throughout the year.
Over the last year, the Economic Crimes Division had several successful prosecutions and civil settlements including:
People v. Keigwin
The defendant was accused of killing a retired biotech executive in La Jolla and stealing $8.9 million from the victim’s financial accounts. He was convicted of first-degree murder and robbery for financial gain. He received life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Medical Waste Cases
Unfair business practices cases were brought against Scripps Health and Sharp Hospital for the improper disposal of medical and hazardous waste including human blood and tissue in a local landfill. Both businesses agreed to injunctions preventing further unlawful disposal and paid a total of $375,000 in civil penalties and costs.
People v. Herd
The defendant was convicted of 14 counts of real estate crimes for promising victims relief from the foreclosure process. He was sentenced to eight years and eight months in prison.
