Police Commission Cancels Interviews for Interim Chief

The Los Angeles Police Commission on Friday abruptly canceled interviews with candidates for interim police chief, citing an action by the City Council earlier this week to reject any buyout plan that would have facilitated an early departure for Chief Willie L. Williams.

“In light of the motion passed by the council this week, the [commission] needs to consider its process further, and get additional input from Chief Williams,” Commission President Raymond C. Fisher wrote in a letter to the City Council and mayor.

A spokesman for the commission said the panel is still committed to appointing an interim police chief “if the need arises” and would probably reschedule interviews.

Fisher noted in his letter that the commission intends to begin the process of selecting a permanent chief Tuesday by meeting with representatives of the city’s Personnel Department.

The commission last month denied Williams a second five-year term. Williams’ attorneys have charged that the commission was biased and has threatened to sue the city. The chief’s term expires July 6.

Among those whose interviews were canceled were at least two strong contenders for the permanent job, Deputy Chiefs Mark Kroeker and Bernard Parks. Assistant Chief Bayan Lewis and Deputy Chief Martin Pomeroy were also scheduled to be interviewed.

In a related development, Mayor Richard Riordan said Friday that he has been in contact with Williams’ attorneys, but declined to elaborate on their discussions. Riordan said he wants to work out a way for the chief “to leave the city with dignity and show him the respect that he deserves for having been the right person at the right time.”