L.A. Chief Backs Gun Proposals

Los Angeles Police Chief Bernard Parks has thrown his support behind a package of new gun-control measures, including requirements that dealers sell trigger locks with each gun and take fingerprints of those who buy ammunition.

The measures were proposed by Councilman Mike Feuer, who said he hopes the laws will help reduce gun violence and help police investigate shootings.

“These changes further emphasize the city and department’s efforts to reduce gun violence,” Parks said in a letter to the City Council.

The measures include a prohibition on the sale of magazines and clips that can be converted to hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition. They also ban gun dealers from helping to sell or transfer so-called “Saturday Night Specials” between unlicensed parties. Finally, the package calls for background checks of all gun shop employees.

The Police Commission is scheduled today to consider joining Parks in supporting the package before sending the measures to the City Council for a final vote.

“I am very encouraged by the Police Department’s support of my motion, and urge the Police Commission to join the department in recognizing the value of closing existing loopholes and adding important new protections,” said Feuer.

Feuer’s package of gun-control measures has already won the support of a coalition of Southern California lawmakers, who hope to adopt similar measures soon.