LAPD Changes

In the column in which he criticized the Los Angeles Police Department, the Police Commission and Chief Willie Williams, Mike Davis (Opinion, May 9) cites some recent, well-publicized events as proof that the LAPD hasn’t changed. He could not be further from the truth.

The shooting of tow truck operator John Daniels was ruled “out of policy” by a department review board, a finding that both Williams and this commission reaffirmed. After a lengthy investigation and a Board of Rights hearing, to which Officer Douglas Iversen is entitled by law, his guilt or innocence will be determined based on the facts of the case, not public opinion, as Davis would seem to prefer. It is that board which will make a recommendation on an appropriate penalty, if warranted. Additionally, the district attorney’s office is conducting its own independent investigation, which is continuing.

I don’t know where Davis gets the idea that the commission is hiding its head in the sand where the Michael James Bryant case is concerned. The internal investigation into this case has just begun.

In suggesting that the commission has failed to address ongoing complaints of sexual harassment, six alleged cases that trail back to 1988, Davis fails to acknowledge that none of the current board members was appointed before 1991. The commission and the chief have made numerous public statements expressing our complete intolerance of sexual harassment. The board works with its Women’s Advisory Council on improving training in that area, as well as improving the department’s response to such allegations. The chief has appointed a new women’s coordinator, who, among her other duties, is working closely with the Internal Affairs Division concerning the handling of sexual harassment investigations. That is not to say that further improvements are not needed.

The issue Davis raises concerning a civilian review board was thoroughly investigated by the Independent (Christopher) Commission. After examining many such boards throughout the country, the commission concluded that civilian review boards rarely perform effectively, and would be less desirable than a properly staffed and empowered Police Commission. The Police Commission staff has been expanded and is now performing independent audits of the personnel complaint process.

JESSE A. BREWER, President, Board of Police Commissioners