Jay Cicinelli

* It is beyond belief that the LAPD brass is considering firing Officer Jay Cicinelli, the policeman who lost an eye in an on-duty gunfight (Sept. 30). He should be given a medal, a bonus and a promotion. He put his life on the line to protect the citizens of our city, exactly what he was sworn to do when he got his badge, and he paid a terrible price.

Is the police bureaucracy so out of control that those who make this kind of decision have lost their balance as well as their capacity for humanity? Cicinelli, as a result of his experience, has become even more valuable to the Police Department; he has a lot to teach fellow officers.

These are the kinds of decisions that make citizens lose respect and confidence in the department.

MARTIN ELKORT

Los Angeles

* My dictionary defines probation as, “1) an act of testing, 2) the testing or trial of a person’s conduct, character, qualifications, or the like.”

In my estimation, Cicinelli has passed the test with flying colors. He put his life on the line and came out a winner. His fervor to fight for his rightful place in his chosen profession is to be commended.

If other officers in Los Angeles and across the nation have continued working after losing an eye, this appears to be discrimination.

The probationary period should not take precedence in the face of such courage. He has proven himself worthy and his desire to continue as an active officer should be honored. Would that there were more officers like him.

MARY E. PICKETT

Los Angeles