Chief, L.A. at Decisive Points

After 37 years as a pioneer within the Los Angeles Police Department, Chief Bernard C. Parks exits Parker Center four months before the scheduled end of his five-year term. He wisely has decided not to pursue a pointless legal battle against the Police Commission’s refusal to reappoint him. His retirement, which in effect takes place next week with the start of a long vacation, requires the city to speed up the selection of the next chief.

Deputy Chief Mike Bostic will be in charge until the Police Commission chooses an interim chief. Meanwhile, a head-hunting firm hired by the city’s personnel department will conduct a nationwide search for candidates to lead the Police Department. The selection of the next chief will also be guided by a blue- ribbon panel of citizens selected by commissioners. Two members of the commission will join that panel as it develops criteria for a new chief.

The next chief must complete the job of reform; in the context of the LAPD, that means showing by example that the department must answer to civilian oversight. But before that can happen, the next chief must focus on boosting officer morale and improving day-to-day police work in order to fight crime.

In talking about his plans, Parks said city secession “is the most important issue confronting the city.... I want to evaluate the pros and cons so that I will be able to influence others to vote appropriately on this issue.” We hope the chief will indeed study the issue, because when he does we believe he will conclude that the splitting of Los Angeles would not enhance crime prevention and policing; a former police chief would be in a unique position to make that case.

Parks will also consider a run for the 8th City Council District, in South and southwest Los Angeles. If he decides to seek elected office, Parks will need to demonstrate that he has more on his mind than political revenge against Mayor James K. Hahn, who opposed his appointment to a second term. Parks would have to show how he would address the various needs of that community.

As he begins a new chapter of an already political life, Chief Parks is free to leave bitterness behind and look forward to playing a constructive role in the region, through public life or private enterprise.