Hatami Continues Child Protection Advocacy Post-Election, Citing AB379 as Key Focus

Los Angeles, CA – Jonathan Hatami, a veteran Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney and former candidate for District Attorney, has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening child protection laws in California following his concession in the March 2024 primary election. Hatami, known for his work in complex child abuse cases, emphasized the ongoing need for robust legal frameworks to safeguard vulnerable youth. His recent public statements highlight a continued focus on legislative efforts, particularly regarding Assembly Bill 379.

In a recent opinion piece published on May 17, 2025, Hatami articulated his stance on AB379, which aimed to make it an automatic felony for an adult to buy or purchase a 16- or 17-year-old for sex. He criticized initial attempts to remove the felony language from the bill, stating, "As a Dad, a child abuse prosecutor, and just a basic human being living on this planet, ALL children should be protected from sex traffickers, and anyone trying to buy or purchase them for sex. Children INCLUDE 16- and 17-year-olds."

Hatami's advocacy underscores a broader concern among some legal professionals and victim advocates regarding the protection of minors. He argued that the debate over AB379 revealed a "lack of moral courage" among some legislators who prioritized political party lines over the safety of children. He maintained that prosecuting sex traffickers to the fullest extent of the law is crucial for holding offenders accountable and protecting a child's life and innocence.

Despite his unsuccessful bid for District Attorney, where he finished third in a crowded field, Hatami has consistently vowed to continue his fight for justice. In his concession statement in March 2024, he declared, "My fight for justice doesn't end with this race. Neither should yours. We are a team and always will be. I'm already back at work and I'll keep fighting for children and the most vulnerable in our community." This commitment is reflected in his active engagement with legislative issues like AB379.

The eventual passage of the felony provision for buying sex from 16- and 17-year-olds, which Hatami noted occurred on a 74-0 vote in the Assembly, signifies a legislative victory for child protection advocates. Hatami continues to leverage his platform as a prosecutor and survivor to influence public discourse and policy, advocating for what he terms "real reforms" in the justice system. His ongoing efforts signal a persistent focus on victim's rights and public safety in California.