Kevin Gaines (police officer)

Kevin Gaines (1966 – March 18, 1997) was an American police officer who served with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). He is primarily known for his involvement in a highly publicized incident that led to the Rampart scandal, one of the most extensive cases of police corruption in LAPD history.

Gaines was shot and killed in an off-duty incident in North Hollywood by LAPD Officer Frank Lyga. Lyga claimed self-defense, stating that Gaines brandished a handgun during a road rage encounter and threatened him. An LAPD investigation and subsequent internal affairs review cleared Lyga of any wrongdoing, finding the shooting to be justified.

However, the circumstances surrounding Gaines' death and his alleged ties to Death Row Records contributed to the unravelling of the Rampart scandal. During investigations into Gaines, allegations surfaced that he was involved in corrupt activities, including filing false police reports, associating with gang members, and receiving payments from Death Row Records for security services. These allegations, along with information provided by former Rampart CRASH (Community Resources Against Street Hoodlums) officer Rafael Perez, eventually exposed widespread corruption within the Rampart Division.

The city of Los Angeles initially settled a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Gaines' family for $250,000. However, after further details of Gaines' alleged misconduct emerged during the Rampart investigation, the city sued to recover the settlement money. The lawsuit was eventually settled.

The legacy of Kevin Gaines remains controversial due to his connection to the Rampart scandal and the questions surrounding his death. His case highlights the complexities and challenges of policing, police accountability, and the potential for corruption within law enforcement agencies.