Westside : Support Group for Police Launched in Beverly Hills

More than 200 people showed their appreciation of the Beverly Hills Police Department Tuesday, crowding into City Council chambers for the kick-off of a community organization dedicated to supporting the police.

The group, Police and Community Together, was formed by a coalition of residents and business people who want to foster community support for the police, speakers said. Spearheaded by dozens of civic leaders, PACT’s list of supporters include philanthropist Caroline Ahmanson and former MCA mogul Lew Wasserman.

Police have come under fire after a former mayor filed a lawsuit alleging that the department targets African American men for traffic stops. The city and police have denied the charge.

“Because of the suit, police feel like they are under attack,” said co-chairman Ken Goldman. “We want to show them they have the overwhelming support of the community”