Local News in Brief : McGill Focuses on Gang Issue

Carl McGill, a write-in candidate in the 50th District Assembly race, says he will bring integrity and expertise at fighting gangs to the Assembly if he is elected.

McGill, 29, a Los Angeles police officer and Inglewood resident, is one of four write-in candidates who entered the race after the death of incumbent Curtis Tucker (D-Inglewood). Tucker, whose name remains on the ballot along with that of Republican Mike Davis, is still considered the favorite. If Tucker wins as expected, a special election will be held next spring.

McGill, who could not be reached for comment for a Times article Oct. 28, said in an interview this week that his write-in bid is intended to increase his name recognition if a special election is held.

“It’s time for a new era in the 50th district,” said McGill, promising to use his expertise to fight gang and crime problems in the area if elected. “The voters have to look at the candidates’ records of integrity and evaluate how outspoken and aggressive the candidates are.”

McGill founded the Southern California Gang Awareness Program, in which he volunteers off-duty time to give presentations to parents on how to protect their children from gang violence and gang involvement. McGill has discussed his anti-gang efforts on national talk shows and news programs, and was honored as ABC News’ “Person of the Week” earlier this year.

The other write-in candidates are Roderick Wright, Frank Wong, and Andra Higgs.