Times Should Support Aggressive Policing
Your recent editorial on crime in the Valley (“Stronger Police Force is Way to End Horror of Gang Violence,” Jan. 7) has been a long time in coming. I am particularly gratified that you recognized the significant impact on crime made by the LAPD’s Metro Division. The problem is that this unit is among those specialized units that The Times has previously singled out as being in need of elimination. Perhaps your editorial position, and the article that appeared in the Dec. 24 edition praising the New York Police Department for adopting the Los Angeles Police Department’s style of policing will signal a turnaround in the editorial position of your newspaper. The fact is that a strong, effective and fair police department is the only way to control crime. The emphasis on “community based policing” may make certain elements of the community feel good about the police. But in the long run, it is creating a society of “happy crime victims.”
I hope the trend toward more aggressive policing continues, and that The Times supports the change.
HOWARD L. EKERLING
Sherman Oaks
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