Hiring More Police Is a Top Priority

* The Los Angeles Times editorial (“Pool of Police Candidates Still Deep,” Sept. 17) on Los Angeles Police Department hiring did not properly characterize my views about the hiring of new LAPD officers.

First, I wholeheartedly support the city’s public safety plan and our efforts to hire 3,000 additional officers as quickly as possible. The city continues to aggressively recruit and train new officers to achieve this goal.

Second, contrary to your editorial, I believe that asking tough questions and taking a comprehensive approach to recruiting, hiring and training does not represent a retreat from the public safety plan or from a commitment to hire more police. This approach is responsible and it ensures that taxpayer dollars are properly spent.

While the city rapidly increases its police force and continues with its implementation of the Christopher Commission reforms, I believe it is equally important that we evaluate and track how we are doing in these efforts and ensure that the LAPD has the resources and support it needs. Quality and quantity must go hand in hand.

I understand that more police officers are desperately needed on our streets, and as chair of the Public Safety Committee, this is one of my top priorities.

LAURA CHICK

Chick is the Los Angeles City Council member representing the 3rd District.