LOS ANGELES : Contracts OKd for Team Investigating Williams
The Los Angeles Police Commission approved contracts Tuesday for private attorneys and investigators looking into allegations of misconduct by Chief Willie L. Williams.
The panel is investigating rumors that Williams sought and received free rooms and meals at a Las Vegas casino and free tickets to a local amusement park. The chief has denied any wrongdoing.
Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker will serve as the panel’s independent legal counsel, at an hourly rate of $325. Ex-FBI agent Lawrence Lawler and his firm will do the detective work at the rate of $150 an hour.
“It is our hope and expectation that with this team we can move quickly and get this matter resolved,” Commissioner Deirdre Hill said.
The chief, who sat expressionless, made no remarks during the commission’s discussion. In December, retired Deputy Chief Stephen Downing informed the panel that rumors about Williams were circulating among retired and current officers.
Last month, Williams hired attorney and ex-police commissioner Melanie Lomax, and threatened to sue Downing.
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