Politics & Government
Key Testimony Expected Today in 'Dirty DUI' Case
Christopher Butler, who plead guilty of selling drugs, robbery, conspiracy and extortion is expected to take the stand against Stephen Tanabe this week.
(BAY CITY NEWS) --
Former private investigator Christopher Butler, of Concord, who was a key figure in a Contra Costa County law enforcement scandal, is expected to testify in federal court in San Francisco today in the trial of former sheriff's Deputy Stephen Tanabe.
Tanabe is accused of conspiracy, wire fraud and extortion for allegedly aiding Butler in arranging three drunken driving stings in Danville in 2010 and 2011.
The men arrested in the so-called "dirty DUI" stings were husbands or ex-husbands of Butler's female clients, who were involved in divorce or child custody proceedings and were looking to gain an advantage in those cases.
Butler is expected to take the stand today in the court of U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer at the Federal Building on Golden Gate Avenue.
Butler pleaded guilty to several charges and was sentenced to eight years in prison. As part of his plea bargain, he agreed to testify against Tanabe.
He will be called to the stand following testimony by a Sprint official regarding text messages allegedly exchanged between Butler and Tanabe.
Previous Patch articles on 'Dirty DUI' Scandal:
Butler Gets 8 Years in Dirty DUI Scandal
Tanabe pleads not guilty to Federal Charges
Contra Costa Sheriff's Deputy, a Danville Officer, Arrested in County Drug Task Force Probe
Report: 'Dirty DUI' Sting Nabbed Men in Clayton, Concord
D.A.'s Office Reviewing 'Dirty DUI' Arrests, Including Tri-Valley Winemaker Mitchell Katz
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