Panel OKs Own Unit for Internal LAPD Complaints

The Los Angeles Police Commission ended months of debate Tuesday by unanimously approving creation of a unit that will investigate complaints of discrimination and harassment within the LAPD’s ranks.

The commission had considered creating the unit at last week’s meeting, but agreed to postpone the vote after its attorney advised a delay. In the interim, two commissioners met with Police Chief Willie L. Williams, who had expressed reservations about the proposal because it recommended that the commission, not the chief’s office, direct any investigations of complaints.

Tuesday, however, Williams said that minor changes in the proposed unit had satisfied him. In particular, Williams said he was pleased that commissioners agreed to notify his office within 48 hours of any complaint being filed. The commission also modified its proposal to add one more sworn officer to the unit’s 14-member staff.

Nevertheless, the unit will report to the commission, not the department itself, a novel approach that is intended to demonstrate the commission’s commitment to rooting out harassment and discrimination in the ranks. The move reflects the commissioners’ concern that housing the unit within the LAPD would make some victims more reluctant to come forward.

Creation of the unit still requires City Council approval and funding for its projected annual budget of $662,000. Commission Vice President Deirdre Hill urged the council to move quickly so that the unit can be established as soon as possible.

Councilwoman Jackie Goldberg, who has enthusiastically supported the proposal, said she was pleased by the commission vote and vowed to seek funding for the unit--a battle she said will be made easier by the recognition that reducing harassment and discrimination complaints will help hold down legal costs.

“Once you do this, you’re not only going to save lots and lots of money,” Goldberg said, “you’re going to begin to change the culture of the institution.”