Former Lapd Captain Known As 'Captain Hollywood' Dodges Prosecution

A Legal Twist in the LAPD Drama

In the latest chapter of Hollywood's real-life crime dramas, former LAPD Captain Cory Palka, affectionately known as 'Captain Hollywood,' has sidestepped prosecution. It seems the clock has run out on pursuing charges for his alleged involvement in spilling the beans about sexual abuse allegations against ex-CBS head honcho, Les Moonves. This development was unearthed via court records from the Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman's office.

Palka, who retired from the LAPD in 2020, was accused by New York Attorney General Leticia James of warning CBS execs about an impending sexual assault complaint against Moonves around November 2017. The accusation came to light in 2023, long after Palka had retired. It was alleged that he reached out to Ian Metrose, CBS’s Senior VP of Talent Relations, leaving a message about the confidential complaint. "Somebody walked in the station about a couple hours ago and made allegations against your boss," Palka reportedly said, continuing to offer details to CBS before the media could catch wind.

“What is most appalling is the alleged breach of trust of a victim of sexual assault, who is among the most vulnerable, by a member of the LAPD,” former LAPD Chief Michael Moore remarked.

CBS Connections and Hollywood Ties

Palka’s Hollywood entanglements didn't stop at Moonves. Text messages between Palka, CBS execs, and Moonves showed that Palka worked diligently to stifle the allegations from spreading. This included attempts to prevent the media and fellow LAPD investigators from getting wind of the claims. Over the years, Palka had become a familiar face at CBS events, having worked for CBS during the Grammys from 2004 to 2008.

The District Attorney's office took notice, with the LAPD's Internal Affairs unit recommending charges in 2023 for attempting to solicit a bribe and disclosing confidential information. But despite these recommendations and Moore’s vow to investigate further, the statute of limitations spelled the end of this legal road.

Further Allegations and Unresolved Queries

The plot thickens with additional claims tied to Hollywood’s elite. The investigation into Moonves also spotlighted Palka’s alleged cooperation with other high-profile entities, including the Church of Scientology. Reports suggest that when actress Leah Remini and others accused Scientologist Danny Masterson of misconduct, the LAPD's Hollywood Division was quick to notify the Church, raising eyebrows about Palka’s involvement.

Masterson, who was arrested in 2020 on rape charges, was found guilty in 2023, yet questions linger about who in the LAPD tipped off the Church back in 2004. Palka denied interfering, though the timing of the Church’s response raises suspicions.

As the city that thrives on stories of power, glitz, and drama turns another page, Palka walks free, leaving these allegations as a lingering reminder of Hollywood's complex and often murky intersections of fame, law, and loyalty.