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Phil Matier: Mirkarimi's Wife Will Take the Stand, Wants Immunity

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) - Eliana Lopez will reportedly take the stand in her husband's upcoming domestic abuse trial. But, there's a catch - Lopez, who is married to San Francisco Sheriff Ross Mirkarimi, wants immunity.

Attorney Paula Canny said her client is worried that prosecutors may level child endangerment charges against her - because Lopez and Mirkarimi's toddler son was present when the couple is said to have had the loud, physical fight that sparked the New Year's holiday charges against Mirkarimi.

"Otherwise, she says she just might wind up standing there and taking the fifth," explained KCBS and Chronicle Insider Phil Matier.

KCBS, CBS 5 and SF Chronicle Insider Phil Matier:

According to Matier, Canny also claims that Lopez is concerned that federal authorities may deport her back to her native Venezuela.

Lopez has repeatedly and publicly denounced the misdemeanor domestic violence charges against Mirkarimi. Prosecutors claim he inflicted a bruise on his wife's arm during an argument last month. They say Lopez showed the mark to a neighbor, who allegedly videotaped it.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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