Bernard Parks

Re “In Protest, Officers Seek to Bar Chief From Funerals,” Jan. 15:

In your article regarding Los Angeles Police Chief Bernard C. Parks, you state that the chief appears to be well regarded within community and government circles. I can only speak for myself and my perception of some of my fellow volunteers when I state that we are very concerned with the treatment our Neighborhood Watch program has received at the hands of Chief Parks. He has completely ignored the protests of the citizens in removing our senior lead officers from liaison duty to our communities. Parks seems determined to erase all the good works and goodwill done by Mark Kroeker.

BETTY VELASCO, Valley Village

*

It’s about time Los Angeles has a police chief who terminates officers who violate departmental policy and penal codes. As a former police officer I can state that every police officer has done something he or she can be fired for. It’s about time some of the “line” officers start to worry. If they don’t like it, go find another line of work.

LARRY MAZUR JR., Santa Clara

*

After years of LAPD officers running amok, lying, cheating and physically attacking citizens, the force finally has a chief with the guts and integrity to discipline and fire the miscreants. Chief Parks should be applauded. The LAPD will be stronger, more mature and respected because of his courage.

In response to proper discipline taking place, many of the union police have reacted by asking/demanding that the chief not be present at their funerals, should they die while on duty. How petty and immature their stance is.

Wake up, folks. We are responsible for our actions. If you think that you are above the rules, you are wrong. If you are incapable of following the rules of your job, then quit. It will allow a professional to fill the position you are now denigrating.

RON TRIMBLE, Lakewood