The Region - News from March 19, 1987

The Los Angeles Police Commission approved a plan to randomly test probationary police officers for drug and alcohol abuse. Commissioners voted unanimously to test new officers at least twice during their 18-month probationary periods. Those found to be using illegal drugs or abusing alcohol could be fired. The department’s present policy requires the city’s 7,000 police officers to agree to a breath, blood or urine test if they exhibit behavior suggestive of narcotics or alcohol abuse. David Baca, vice president of the Los Angeles Police Protective League, said the labor union intends to challenge the random testing of probationary officers should the department decide to implement it.