Charges dropped against San Jose biker gang lawyer

Federal prosecutors have dropped all charges against a San Jose attorney who had been accused of tipping off a target of a major drug investigation through a member of the Hells Angels motorcycle gang.

Authorities had said defense attorney Michael Edward Hingle revealed details of a planned police raid to Hells Angels officer Steve Tausan in order to protect a client who was a target of the probe.

But Hingle’s attorney, Mary McNamara, says she uncovered evidence that details of the planned raid were discussed in open court. As a result, McNamara says, Hingle couldn’t be charged with revealing information that had already been publicized.

Tausan was a popular member of the Santa Cruz chapter of the Hells Angels. He was killed in late 2011 at the funeral of another Hells Angel. Earlier this month, an ex-Hells Angels member, Steve Ruiz, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter in Tausan’s death

The San Francisco Chronicle reported Tuesday that charges of obstructing justice and lying to federal agents were dropped.

Prosecutors gave no explanation in court filings as to why the case was being dismissed.