- LAPD - Polce Commission   ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ LOS ANGELES POLICE COMMISSION NEWS BRIEFINGS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the Police Commission Meeting on November 1, 2016

Report of the Chief of Police –
Assistant Chief Michael Moore spoke on behalf of Chief Beck, whom suffered injuries due to an accident. Violent crimes remains at 10.6%.

Consent Agenda Items -
The Board of Police Commissioners approved the Department’s reports for donations to support Department programs, services, trainings, employees, hardware, etc.

$745.00 for flashlights and magnifying glasses
$52,485 for the painting and repairs of the Metropolitan Division Equestrian Arena
$40,000 to be used to purchase morale and well-being items, and for special events, for the benefit of the Los Angeles Police Department
$33,700.31 in value, for the donation of the remote video traffic monitoring system

The Board of Police Commissioners approved the following Departmental reports, relative to the destruction of obsolete original records for:

 Valley Traffic Division
 Personnel Division
 Central Area
 Central Traffic Division
 Proposed Addition to Council-Approved Record Retention Schedule-PDX40

Regular Agenda Items –
The Department’s Verbal Presentation and Discussion, relative to the recommendations contained in the Office of the Inspector General’s report dated March 10, 2016, “Ten-Year Overview of Categorical Use of Force Investigations, Policy, and Training,” regarding the various de-escalation techniques taught to recruits and officers and the specific manner in which those techniques are currently being taught to them.

Closed Session Item -
The Police Commissioners unanimously adopted the Chief’s recommendations (OIS #090-15).

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the Police Commission Meeting on October 25, 2016

Commission Comments – Commissioner Johnson expressed condolences on behalf of the Police Commission to the family of Detective Nadine Hernandez-Fox. Commissioner McClain-Hill and Chief Beck were not in session as they attended the funeral for Detective Hernandez-Fox. On Friday of last week, Johnson attended an event for the Boys and Girls Club, called “Building Bridges through Basketball” which LAPD and other sponsors attended to support the community. Commissioners Johnson and McClain-Hill attended a Use of Force training that is attended by all Officers within the Department. He was impressed with the training and the feedback the Officers received. Commissioners Johnson and Goldsmith attended a CPAB meeting for North Hollywood and received a lot of community feedback. Commissioner Soboroff expressed condolences for activist, Tom Hayden.

Report of the Chief of Police –
Assistant Chief Michael Moore spoke on behalf of Chief Beck. He provided an update on the Major Cities Chiefs Association conference, and topics discussed. Chief Moore provided updates on OIS incidents that occurred over the past week, and informed the Commission that investigations are underway. Violent crimes increased to 10.6%, with 11 homicides this past week 1.3% increase in year-to-date.

Consent Agenda Items -
The Board of Police Commissioners approved the Department’s reports for donations to support Department programs, services, trainings, conference expenses.
$721.28 for the Chief to attend the Major Cities Chiefs Association (MCCA)
$150 for the Van Nuys Area Cadet Program
$45,609 to support the Rampart Area Domestic Abuse Response Team program
$5,000 for the Holiday Party to benefit the Southeast Area
$1,000 for the Rampart Area Cade Program
$400 for the Northeast Area Cadet Program
$2,970 for the Van Nuys Cadet Program

Regular Agenda Items –
The Inspector General’s provided a report relative to the Inspection of Taser and Beanbag Shotgun Deployment. Commissioner Johnson requested the Inspector General report back in regards to the recommendation #1 in the report, and provide an evaluation of the 40 millimeter round. The report was approved.

The Department’s Report, relative to the grant application and award acceptance for the 2016-2017 Minor Decoy/Shoulder Tap Grant Program, was approved.

The Department’s Report, relative to the request to approve and negotiate an agreement with selected Proposer, Niche Technology USA Limited, was approved.

The Department’s Report, relative to the application for the 2016-2018 Intellectual Property Enforcement Grant, was approved.

The Department’s Report, relative to the approval of an agreement with the selected equine farrier services provider for the Los Angeles Police Department’s
Metropolitan Division Mounted Platoon, was approved.

Closed Session Item -
The Police Commissioners unanimously adopted the Chief’s recommendations (OIS #095-15, UD #099-15, OIS-Animal #100-15).

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the Police Commission Meeting on October 4, 2016

Commission Comments –

Commissioner Johnson made a statement in regards to the past two Officer Involved Shootings that occurred this past weekend, resulting in the deaths of two civilians. The identity has not been established in regards to one of the individuals. He expressed his sympathies to the families of the individuals, and he will release the footage taken by a security camera from a private business. Within the next two weeks, Johnson will be setting forth a recommendation for his fellow commissioners to consider regarding a process to evaluate current video release policy in Categorical Use of Force incidents. Commissioner Johnson welcomed and introduced Commissioner Shane Murphy Goldsmith to the Police Commission.

Report of the Chief of Police –

Chief Charlie Beck expressed condolences in regards to the shootings that occurred during the weekend. He mentioned having officers from the Family Liaison section, available to assist families that need information or assistance. Chief Beck mentioned being extremely concerned in regards to the number of guns that are on the streets. Metropolitan Division has recovered over 500 guns in four divisions in LAPD. The same four divisions have suffered 450 people being shot by guns this year. Since July violent crime has decreased as part of a continuing trend. Last week, violent crime was at 11.8% and it has dropped to 11.2%.

Departmental Report –

The Department’s Report, relative to the request for payment of reward offered on City Council File No. 11-0010-S2, was approved.

The Department’s Report, relative to the professional services agreement with Oak Tree Gun Club for rifle firing range services, was approved.

The Department’s Report, relative to the Supplemental Police Account Second Quarterly Report (April through June 2016), was approved.

The Department’s Report, relative to the Missing/Found Person’s Investigation Reports Audit (AD No. 15-010), was approved.

The Department’s Report, relative to the Wilshire Area Detective Command Accountability Performance Audit (AD No. 15-090), was approved.

For additional information on any of these items, contact Juan Garcia, (213) 236-1405, juan.garcia@lapd.lacity.org

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the Police Commission Meeting on May 24, 2016

Commissioner Vice President Steven Soboroff opened the meeting and a quorum was established. All Consent Agenda items were unanimously approved. 

Commissioner Vice President Steven Soboroff reflected on his actions regarding one specific comment he said at last week's police commission meeting and said he wouldn't do it again and offered an apology.

Chief Beck reported the LAPD helped deliver the space shuttle fuel tank to California Science Center immediately on time with minimal disruption. On Saturday Chief beck attended the cadet graduation, LAPD youth program between ages of 14 and 21 at the USC Galen center. Almost 500 cadets graduated, bringing the total to 7,861. Chief Beck said the cadet program is 90% Hispanic, 50% female, an excellent representation of the Department's outreach. This was Chief Paysinger's last graduation as a full time employee as he will retire soon. Chief Beck thanked Chief Paysinger for transforming the Cadet program over the past seven years when the program had less than 500 cadets.  Chief Beck thanked Chief Paysinger for changing the curriculum, purpose and magnitude of the Cadet program. There are 9,900 sworn police officers, 33 recruit officers in the academy, 2,714 civilian employees, a little more than 400 LAPD Reserve officers, 283 specialist volunteers, 60 chaplains, and 7,861 LAPD Police Cadets.  Chief Beck closed his report by saying the officer who was shot a week ago this past Friday in Hollenbeck is recovering well at home.

Inspector General Alex Bustamante provided a verbal update and discussion on the relative to the status of the recommendations contained in the Ten-Year Overview of Categorical Use of Force Investigations, Policy, and Training.

Executive Director's Report, dated May 18, 2016, relative to the recommendation of qualified vendor to provide Official Police Garage Towing and Storage Services for Service Area 3 was approved and will be transmitted to the Mayor and City Council.

Department's Report, dated May 24, 2016, relative to the recommendation for the Police Commission Unit Citation for individuals involved in the Community Safety Partnership for the period of October 1, 2011, through February 1, 2015, for outstanding service to the City, was approved and will be transmitted to the Mayor and City Council.

Department's Report, dated May 19, 2015, relative to the Supplemental Police Account first Quarterly report (January through March 2016), was approved and will be transmitted to the Mayor and City Council.

Department's Report, dated May 18, 2016, relative to the reprogramming of funds for the 2014 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction Program Grant, was approved and will be transmitted to the Mayor and City Council.

Department's Report, dated May 18, 2016, relative to the grant application and award for the National Institute of Justice FY 2015 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction Program, was approved and will be transmitted to the Mayor and City Council.

Department's Report, dated May 19, 2016, relative to the Vice Command Accountability Performance Audit, approved the Department's report and Executive Summary.

Department's Report, dated May 19, 2016, relative to the Narcotics Enforcement Detail Command Accountability Performance Audit, approved the Department's report and Executive Summary.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the Police Commission Meeting on May 17, 2016

Commission Comments - Commissioner Robert Saltzman was pleased to attend the recent recruit graduation and noted that the representation of women and African Americans in the class was in line with the Department's goals.

Report of the Chief of Police - Chief Charlie Beck proudly described how Officer Don Thompson was recognized by President Obama for his heroism. On Friday evening, Chief Beck, as well as Commissioner Johnson, responded to an OIS in Hollenbeck resulted in two officers being injured. Violent crime is 15% compared to this time last year, and Part One Crime is up by 4.8%.

Inspector General Alex Bustamante provided a verbal update on the recommendations contained in the Ten-Year Overview of Categorical Use of Force Investigations, Policy, and Training . The Use of Force Working Group, which consists of members of the Office of the Inspector General, the Department, the City Attorney's Office, and the Police Protective League, has met and begun the process of reviewing language for a draft policy. Another meeting is scheduled for this week and the Inspector General will provide another update at the next Commission meeting.

The Ethics Enforcement Section Quarterly Report, Fourth Quarter, 2015 , was approved.

The Risk Management and Harm Reduction Status Report Status Report, First Quarter, 2016 , as presented by Risk Manager Michael Hyams and Captain Dominic Choi, was approved. This report focused on employee involved traffic collisions, which are actually trending downward even though more miles are being driven. The report analyzed the use of seat belts and the reasons why they are sometimes not used. Chief Beck noted the importance of always wearing seat belts and added that when all of the cars are equipped with telematics, or "black boxes," the issue should be improved.

The Biased Policing and Mediation - 1 st Quarter 2016 report to the Board of Police Commissioners , as presented by Commander Stuart Maislin, was approved.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the Police Commission Meeting on May 10, 2016

Report of the Chief of Police - Chief Earl Paysinger attended the recent funeral of former Los Angeles Police Chief Willie Williams in Philadelphia. He remembered the tumultuous times when Chief Williams became the first African American LAPD Chief, and the many accomplishments he achieved, including a defined renaissance of community relations. At the time, both Assistant Chief Paysinger and Chief Beck were young, new lieutenants in South Bureau and they appreciated the extraordinary contributions Chief Willie Williams made to the Department. Assistant Chief Paysinger also reported on the current crime statistics: violent crime is 15.7% compared to this time last year, and Part One Crime is up by 4.5%.

Director of Constitutional Policing and Policy Arif Alikhan and Commander Bob Lopez provided a verbal presentation relative to the Investigative Processes and Death Notification Procedures of Force Investigation Division. The presentation began with a media clip depicting a day when the media was invited to witness a mock officer involved shooting scenario. Department personnel portrayed an actual incident and the immediate investigation which follows such an incident. The Los Angeles Police Department has one of the most extensive investigation policies following a use of force incident in the country. Numerous personnel from several investigative sections, including the Office of the Inspector General, immediately arrive at the scene to obtain as much information as possible. If possible, at that time, the incident is considered either a Categorical Use of Force, or a Non-Categorical Use of Force. This classification determines the path of investigation and ultimate adjudication. Categorical Use of Force cases are adjudicated by the Board of Police Commissioners, and Non-Categorical Use of Force cases are adjudicated by the Department. In the cases of an In Custody Death, the notification is made by the Coroner, however the LAPD is working with the Coroner to define instances when notification can be a shared responsibility.

Assistant Chief Jorge Villegas presented the supplemental report to the Department's 2015 Use of Force Year-End Review, which was approved. This supplemental report provided numerous charts which detailed statistics from officer involved shootings, so that trends could be determined. The analyzed data looked at the number of rounds fired during an Officer Involved Shooting, ethnicity of officers and suspects, gender of officers and suspects, and age of officers and suspects, among many other factors.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the Police Commission Meeting on May 3, 2016

Commissioner Comments - Commissioner Matthew Johnson described his very positive experience at the Valley Youth Summit and acknowledged Officer Gabe Rodriguez and Officer Mariana Romo for creating and organizing such a meaningful event for so many young people. Commissioner Johnson also stated that he will be placing a review of in-custody death investigation and notification procedures on the agenda for next week.

Commissioner Johnson also stated the following:

When I took this job, I determined that transparency best serves the Department and the public. Our support of body cameras and the fact that we will be the first large department in the country, even with the delays, to outfit our officers with cameras, is evidence of this.

The 2015 Use of Force Report, which will be back on the agenda soon, is also evidence of this. The reports that are issued by the Chief and the Inspector General after our review of Categorical Use of Force cases and the level of detail they contain, which is truly unique to the LAPD, is also evidence of this. I could go on.

In these eight short months, I have met with hundreds of people individually and in groups. That's one of the best parts of this job.

Building on that, beginning in June the Commission will hold regular police commission meetings in each of the four police divisions, in the evening, to encourage as much local participation as possible. That way, we'll increase the possibility for Angelenos to participate in the vital function of citizen oversight. The exact times, dates and locations will be announced shortly.

Transparency in the work of oversight is built on respect. We as commission members may disagree with one another, may disagree or question the command staff or the chief or the department. You as some of our constituents may disagree or question us. Yet none of this works without respect for each other. The essence of civil society is mutual respect.

So long as we can and do respect each other, progress will be made.

I have repeatedly offered to meet with the groups who routinely disrupt these proceedings. I have established ground rules for those meetings because those groups have not shown interest in conversation. Rather, they have repeatedly opted for disruption, or in the case of a meeting last year at a house of worship, in outright hostility.

I do not choose to waste time with theater. We have serious work to do.

I understand well the occasions in which civil disobedience or demonstration are required. You may well believe that time is now. I respect your choice; I simply do not share it. I believe the work we are doing -- from body cameras, to increased and revised training to revising our use of force policy shows we are moving in the right direction.

In that regard there are a number of important items on the agenda today and I'm ready to get down to work.

Report of the Chief of Police - Chief Charlie Beck announced the arrest of an individual known to be the kingpin of drug sales on Skid Row, and added that this arrest will improve the quality of life there. He also noted an officer involved shooting which occurred over the weekend during a domestic violence call. May Day demonstrations throughout Los Angeles were peaceful. Chief Beck will be attending funeral services of former Chief Willie Williams in Philadelphia this weekend. The annual Gun Buy-Back program will also take place this weekend at several locations.

The Inspector General's report relative to the Ten-Year Overview of Categorical Use of Force Investigations, Policy, and Training: Update on Status of Recommendations , was approved with the understanding that updates will now be provided every two weeks.

The Inspector General's report relative to the Comparative Review of Selected Agency Policies Investigations, and Training on the Use of Force OIG Interim Report , was approved. At this time, staff from the Office of the Inspector General has visited and completed analysis of three law enforcement agencies, and will visit the fourth and final agency soon, and will present the final report in mid-June. Commissioner Johnson asked that some of the information also be presented in a grid format to assist in comparing various policies and effectiveness.

The Department's report relative to the Vehicle Pursuit Audit , as presented by Police Performance Auditor, Jeff Phillips, was approved.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the Police Commission Meeting on April 19, 2016

Report of the Chief of Police - Chief Charlie Beck showed a public service announcement starring Sgt. Emada Tingirides promoting the value of "Talk, Read, Sing...It Changes Everything" for young children. Chief Beck thanked Sgt. Tingirides for participating in this important campaign and for sharing her story. Total Part One Crime is up by 3.5% compared to this time last year. There are currently 9,895 sworn employees, 2,700 civilian employees, and 7,410 cadets.

Captain Gerald Woodyard and Member Leslie Evans presented the report from the Southwest Community Police Advisory Board . Captain Woodyard detailed a very difficult period recently of a six hour period at Southwest with numerous shootings and gang-related activity. This violence was addressed with all possible resources being deployed, including Metropolitan. In addition, Captain Woodyard called on the Southwest CPAB and Clergy Council for help, as well as the Department's Community Relationship Division. He feels that the collaboration approach was successful in calming the violence in the community. Mr. Leslie Evans discussed the activities of the Homeless Blight Committee which includes maintaining large photo inventory of homeless encampments in the area, and sharing that information through a monthly newsletter to the community. Mr. Evans is also a member the South Los Angeles Homeless Coalition, an organization dedicated to developing new solutions for housing the homeless.

At the Police Commission Meeting on April 12, 2016

Commission Comments - Commissioner Matthew Johnson attended the recent meeting of the Watts Gang Task Force, and praised the members for their continued efforts.

Report of the Chief of Police - Chief Charlie Beck reported that he made some key personnel changes and promotions in light of the upcoming retirement of Assistant Chief Earl Paysinger. Deputy Chief Beatrice Girmala is being promoted to Assistant Chief and will be assigned to Office of Special Operations, Assistant Chief Jorge Villegas will be assigned to the Office of Administrative Services, and Assistant Michel Moore will be assigned to the Office of Operations and will become the new First Assistant Chief. As a surprise to Commander Jon Peters, Chief Beck named him the new Deputy Chief for Operations West Bureau. Chief Beck also reported on the incident of a violent assault committed by a person pretending to be an Uber driver. Through DNA evidence and diligent police work, the suspect was apprehended one week after the incident. He also discussed an Officer Involved Shooting in Hollenbeck which occurred after the suspect broke into a home and held an 83 year-old man hostage. Total Part One Crime is up by 2.9% compared to this time last year, and Violent Crime is up by 14%. There are currently 9,895 sworn employees, 2,700 civilian employees, and 7,410 Cadets. The Commissioners added that they wholeheartedly agreed with Chief Beck's choices for the promotions.

The following items were approved: the Department's report relative to the request for payment of reward offer on City Council file no. 12-0010-S30 ; the Department's report relative to the supplemental police account fourth quarterly report (October through December 2015); and, the Department's report relative to the professional services agreement between the City of Los Angeles and Microsoft Corporation for applications, support and services

Item #8D, the Department's report relative to Los Angeles City Council Public Safety Committee inquiries , was removed.

At the Police Commission Meeting on March 29, 2016

Report of the Chief of Police - Chief Charlie Beck reported that Total Part One Crime is up by 1.7% compared to this time last year, and Violent Crime is up by 13%. He stated that there is an increase in gang-related crime and resources are being shifted to South and Central Bureau to directly address the increase. There are currently 9,878 sworn employees, 2,692 civilian employees, and 7,410 Cadets.

Co-Chair Margarita Amador and Captain Martin Baeza presented the update from the Hollenbeck Community Police Advisory Board . The members of this Board refer to it as the Community Police Action Board, emphasizing that the members fulfill more than an advisory role. The members address timely, local issues in Hollenbeck, such as ABC permitting, vice issues, and domestic violence. This CPAB is quite active in promoting and developing Neighborhood Watch Programs. Hollenbeck is also home to one of the largest National Night Out events in the city due to the CPAB?s direct involvement. Ms. Edna Galaviz, a student at Roosevelt High School, outlined the structure of the Hollenbeck Teen CPAB. As a member, her view has broadened of the police and she has a better understanding of public safety. She joined the Hollenbeck Teen CPAB as a way to give back to her community, and she hopes to be the Co-Chair. Captain Baeza finished by saying that Hollenbeck Division has found success in community relations through the practice of partnering with community organizations.

All items were approved, including the Confidential Informant Package Audit, the grant award acceptance for the Fiscal Year 2015-16 AB 109 Funds - Public Safety Realignment, the grant award for the 2015 Los Angeles Regional Human Trafficking Task Force Program, and the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority in response to request for proposal no. PS24750 .

At the Police Commission Meeting on March 22, 2016

Commissioner Steve Soboroff began the meeting with a moment of silence in honor of the victims and families impacted by terrorist attack in Brussels.

Report of the Chief of Police - Chief Charlie Beck talked about the increased police presence throughout Los Angeles due to the terrorist attack in Brussels, although there are no known threats to Los Angeles. He also reported that LAPD teams were once again successful in the "Baker to Vegas" foot race over the weekend. Teams are comprised from law enforcement agencies throughout the world. Total Part One Crime is up by 1% compared to this time last year. There are currently 9,905 sworn employees, 2,693 civilian employees, and 7,410 Cadets.

The Department's report relative to the response to the request from Public Safety Committee and Budget and Finance Committee regarding Taser International, Inc. services to provide body-worn video and conducted electrical weapons, as presented by Chief Information Officer Maggie Goodrich and Sergeant Dan Gomez, was approved for transfer to the City Clerk for scheduling with the Public Safety Committee and Budget and Finance Committee. This report answered questions raised when approval of the full implementation and funding of the body worn cameras was before City Council in December.

Through a written statement, Commissioner Matthew Johnson stated the following:

"I'm sorry that I'm unable to be with you today. In my absence, I have asked Mr. Richard Tefank to read this statement into the record.

Today, the Police Commission considers further action on the Department's body camera program - an important next step to preserve and institutionalize Consent Decree reforms, underscore our commitment to innovations that support the LAPD's work to keep Los Angeles safe, and strengthen relationships between officers and the public.

Body-worn cameras have tremendous promise as tools to enhance transparency, promote accountability, and build public trust. Already, the Department has deployed approximately 1,000 cameras across four divisions. When the proposed 7,000-camera program is fully implemented, the Los Angeles Police Department will be the largest municipal law enforcement agency in the nation to equip all field officers with this cutting-edge technology.

Body cameras represent a huge step forward - not just in terms of technology, but as a means of greater transparency and new capabilities to benefit officers and citizens alike. Body cameras enhance accountability, build greater trust with the community, and equip our officers with a cutting-edge tool to support their tireless work to keep communities across Los Angeles safe.

Today's LAPD is a national model for 21st century policing. We are leading the way in adopting new technology, and have embraced the values of relationship-based and constitutional policing. These advances come at an important moment in our history - because questions about police use-of-force are testing not just Los Angeles, but the entire nation. These challenges remind us that progress is not something to take for granted. It is something we have to work for every single day.

Making progress and building trust are not just ideals. Upholding these values is essential to police work - and to the role of the Police Commission and its Inspector General. Cameras are important tools for improving the Department's investigations, especially of officer-involved shootings and other serious use of force incidents that are of the highest concern to us all.

We also owe our officers a huge debt of gratitude. Every day, they serve and protect our families and neighborhoods. They deserve the best resources, because they are central to our efforts to be smarter about the ways in which we keep our communities safe.

And we are adopting a smarter approach , both on the street and in our commitment to leading the nation in technology-based advances and data analysis. The push to equip our police stations with better fiber networks and Wi-Fi connectivity, and to support body-worn cameras and "connected officer" initiatives, is also resulting in increased network capacity for the entire city.

Further, we are working with the U.S. Department of Justice and others to study the impact of body cameras and share L.A.'s leading efforts with the rest of the nation.

I would like to conclude by urging the City Council to fully fund the LAPD's body camera program. The benefits of the program extend to all of our communities, and our officers.

There is no question about the need to move forward. I am confident that the City Council shares our vision for a more effective LAPD that strives to build public trust and support our communities. A police department filled with guardians - guardians who are sworn to serve and protect everyone, equally. Fully funding the body camera program is an essential next step in charting that path forward."

At the Police Commission Meeting on March 15, 2016

Report of the Chief of Police - Chief Charlie Beck talked about the Cesar Chavez Breakfast, which was well-attended. Commissioners Matthew Johnson and Sandra Figueroa-Villa attended the breakfast as well. LAPD joined with LAFD to participate in the St. Baldrick's event, and several officers shaved their heads to raise funds to combat childhood cancer. Violent Crime is up by 11.9%, prompting redeployment into the areas most impacted by the crime. There are currently 9,905 sworn employees, 2,693 civilian employees, and 7,410 Cadets.

Co-Chair Cheryl Cashman and Captain Lillian Carranza presented the annual verbal report from the Van Nuys Community Police Advisory Board . This CPAB has five very active committees that work collaboratively on community improvement projects. The blight abatement committee works with businesses and neighborhoods to improve the appearance of the community. Other committees include technology (community outreach through social media), homelessness, emergency preparedness and youth. In addition, this CPAB produces and participates in numerous community events such as national Night Out, an annual toy drive, and the Special Olympics Torch Run. Teen CPAB Co-Chair Ruth Nu?ez described how the Teen CPAB is actively working on several projects and communicating information to a younger audience through social media.

Risk Manager Michael Hymes presented the Fourth Quarterly Risk Management and Harm Reduction Status Report , which was approved. There are four major areas of risk: use of force, work-related injuries, workplace conflict, and employee involved traffic collisions. This report focused on work related injuries, but provided an overview of all areas.

Director, Office of Constitutional Policing and Policy Arif Alikhan, Assistant Chief Jorge Villegas, and Sgt. Dan Gomez presented the joint report to Board of Police Commission regarding the Department?s Body Worn Video Program , which was approved. Commissioner Robert Saltzman stated that he is still waiting for a substantive discussion on policy and the public release of video. Commissioner Johnson asked that this topic be agendized.

The Inspector General's report on the Ten-Year Overview of Categorical Use of Force Investigations, Policy and Training, was approved with the understanding that the Inspector General will have the lead in a working group of stakeholders to craft policy language based on the recommendations in the report. A timeline will also be developed for the development, approval, and implementation of the proposed policy changes. Commissioner Johnson framed the discussion by stating that this report is one of the series of reports he directed in the fall when he outlined his goals focusing on the reduction of violent crime and the minimization of use of force. He feels that this report emphasizes the preservation of life and the value of de-escalation. Chief Beck agreed with the tenets of the report and offered that the Department?s current policy embodies de-escalation and reverence for life and the evolution of emphasis is a positive step. He noted that approximately 170 training courses address use of force, and a reasonable timeline will need to be developed to make appropriate changes.

At the Police Commission Meeting on March 8, 2016

Commissioner Comments - Commissioner Matthew Johnson announced that the draft Department's Use of Force Report, which was presented last week, will be back to the Commission in a final format on April 12 th . Commissioners Robert Saltzman and Kathleen Kim both added their appreciation for the use of force report as it represents one of the most open and extensive reviews of law enforcement use of force in the country. The report is extremely timely and directly responsive to the community?s concerns. In addition, the Inspector General will be presenting his report next week, examining use of force cases over the last 10 years. The Inspector General will also be presenting an analysis of less lethal equipment in mid-April, and a comprehensive comparison with five other law enforcement agencies in early June.

Report of the Chief of Police - Assistant Chief Earl Paysinger reported that Violent Crime is up by 12.7%, compared to this time last year. To answer Commissioner Matthew Johnson's and Commissioner Steve Soboroff's queries, Assistant Chief Paysinger stated that there are roughly 25,000 to 30,000 gang members in Los Angeles, and traditionally, 40-45% of homicides are gang-related.

Commander Stuart Maislin and Director of Police Training Education Luann Pannell presented the Department's 2015 Biased Policing and Mediation Annual Report to the Board of Police Commissioners , which was approved in a four-to-one vote. Commander Maislin broke down the statistics and explained how Biased Policing cases are investigated and adjudicated, including adjudication through mediation. He detailed the mediation process with statistics at each step, noting that the Department is trying new ways to make the mediation process easier for complainants by meeting at libraries or other neutral, convenient locations. Commissioner Robert Saltzman acknowledged the quality and comprehensive nature of the report, but he expressed frustration that no biased policing complaints were sustained. Commander Maislin described the level of evidence which needs to be present in order to sustain a complaint, making proving these complaints very challenging. Ms. Pannell described this report as one of many factors being utilized by the Department to address and reduce biased policing complaints. All of the training for officers, both in the Academy and in-service, embodies elements of preventing biased policy. All agreed that the on-body cameras may be beneficial in reducing the number of biased policing complaints.

Employee News

Congratulations to Management Analyst Beverly Flynn and Senior Administrative Clerk Rolanda Dowd upon being awarded the Police Meritorious Unit Citation for their outstanding work in Property Division.

Administrative Clerk Rickey Reed has joined the Policy Section of the Police Commission. He has been with the City for approximately 10 years and has served as a Traffic Officer 2 with the Department of Transportation.

Congratulations to Jason Curtis who has promoted to Detective II in the Valley/West Bureau Enforcement Section in Commission Investigation Division.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the Police Commission Meeting on March 1, 2016

Report of the Chief of Police - Chief Charlie Beck noted that an officer was shot at this morning, but fortunately, she was not hit. Part One Crime is down by .4% and Violent Crime is up by 11.8%, compared to this time last year. There are currently 9,984 sworn employees and 2,692 civilian employees.

Deputy Chief Bill Scott provided an update regarding the Operations - South Bureau Narcotics Enforcement Detail Command Accountability Performance Audit . Deputy Chief Scott described a monthly inspection schedule which has been implemented to further tighten up procedures.

Co-Chair Bruce Remick and Captain Peter Zarcone provided an update from the Hollywood Community Police Advisory Board . Mr. Remick explained that Hollywood CPAB is a diverse group of 50 individuals who operate in a committee structure focusing on emergency preparedness, homelessness, and nightclubs. In 2015, the Hollywood CPAB accomplished many goals including the completion of a new Crime Analysis Detail Unit office, CERT and CPR training in the community, and numerous community events. This CPAB is greatly expanding its reach through social media and is finding that it is a great way to reach a significant audience. They are in the process of organizing two Town Hall meetings, knowing that the needs and concerns of residents are different in different parts of Hollywood. Captain Zarcone described the very active youth programs that thrive at Hollywood Division with appreciation to the Community Police Advisory board. The CPAB was also instrumental in raising funds for the state-of-the-art Watch Commander's office.

Captain John McMahon presented the 2015 Annual Use of Force Report , which may be found here: http://www.lapdonline.org/assets/pdf/Use%20of%20Force%20Review-Final.pdf . Commissioner Johnson thanked the Department staff for the well-researched and thorough report and noted that this is the first step as the report will return in a final format in the near future. Captain McMahon described what constitutes a Categorical Use of Force and a Non-Categorical Use of Force, and the frequency of Uses of Force. He used a conceptual metaphor of a human body being the number of all police contacts, and out of all of those contacts, the number of contacts that result in a Use of Force were symbolized by a small mark on one toe. This image portrayed the extremely low number of Use of Force incidents. However, Captain McMahon stressed that while the number of Use of Force cases are low, the Department thoroughly analyzes each incident to determine any policy issues and training needs. He described how the investigation progresses and noted that the media has been invited to an open house where the Use of Force investigation process will be thoroughly reviewed. For the year 2015, the number of Use of Force cases involving the mentally ill increased, therefore, additional emphasis is being placed on working effectively with the mentally ill. The Department will return with a finalized report in the near future.

At the Police Commission Meeting on February 23, 2016

Report of the Chief of Police - Assistant Chief Earl Paysinger acknowledged and thanked Dr. Frederick Price for the generous use of the Crenshaw Christian Center for the recent recruit graduation. It was a lovely location for the graduation and allowed a much larger audience the opportunity to attend the ceremony. Commissioner Matthew Johnson also attended the graduation and agreed that the location was wonderful. Part One Crime is down by 1.1% and Violent Crime is up by 9.7%, compared to this time last year.

All items were approved, including the Restraining and Protective Order Audit , the Time Keeping Audit , the Revolving Training Fund Semi-Annual Report: Reporting Period July 1 through December 31, 2014 , and the report relative to the agreement between the City of Los Angeles and Bode Cellmark Forensics, Inc. to provide forensic dna analysis services .

At the Police Commission Meeting on February 17, 2016

Report of the Chief of Police - Chief Charlie Beck reported that the weekend was very busy for the Los Angeles Police Department. The long, holiday weekend included the Mayor's Prayer Breakfast, the Chinese New Year Parade, marathon trials for the Olympic Games, the Los Angeles Marathon, and the Grammy Awards. Unfortunately, an officer involved shooting also occurred in Van Nuys Division. There are currently 9,921 sworn personnel and 2,672 civilian personnel.

The Harbor Area Detective Command Accountability Performance Audit was approved.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the Police Commission Meeting on February 9, 2016

Commission President Matt Johnson opened the meeting and a quorum was established.  There were no Consent Agenda Items so the meeting proceeded to Commissioner comments. 

Commissioner Johnson mentioned Councilman Buscaino held a Crime Forum in which he mentioned the community is concerned about the increase of crime. About 300 people attended, along with Chief Beck, who addressed these causes and strategies the Department.

Commissioner Johnson also said he attended the association of Black Officers of Law Enforcement Personnel.  It celebrated the Department's 100th Anniversary of the LAPD's first African American Female Police Officer, Georgia Ann Robinson.  Along with associations like ABLE, the Department is able to reach diversity goals such as the successful make up to reflect the diversity of the community it serves. 

Chief Charlie Beck provided some general crime statistics covering January, the first month of 2016.  There was a slight decrease in property crime.  Geographically, there was an increase in crime in Central and South Bureau, and a reduction in crime in Valley and West Bureau.  Chief Beck reported the Department has 9,939 LAPD officers, 2,672 civilian personnel, and 7,368 cadets in the youth program. Chief Beck mentioned Attorney General Loretta Lynch will highlight the LAPD as a role model police department, by visiting 1 of 6 police departments.  She chose the LAPD as part of her community policing tour.  She is choosing cities that embody successful policing, such as effective use of data, strong community relationships, and a commitment to officer safety.

At the Police Commission Meeting on January 26, 2016

Report of the Chief of Police - Assistant Chief Michel Moore noted that Chief Charlie Beck was observing the tactical exercise and was not able to attend the Commission meeting. On Sunday, the first "Run to Remember" proved to be a large success with 70 law enforcement agencies participating. He proudly reported that LAPD officers achieved the number one spot among the agencies represented. As it is early in the year, the crime statistics are somewhat volatile, however the early figures reflect a lower number of Part One crimes compared to this time last year.

All items, including the destruction of obsolete original and duplicate records from Detective Support and Vice Division, Southwest Area, Pacific Area, Commercial Crimes Division, Hollenbeck Area, Rampart Area, and Motor Transport Division , were approved.

At the Police Commission Meeting on January 19, 2016

Commission Comments  - Commissioner Matthew Johnson , along with Commissioner Sandra Figueroa-Villa were honored to ride in the Kingdom Day Parade. Commissioner Johnson said that it was a wonderful event and he was very pleased to participate with Former Police Commissioner John Mack. Commissioner Johnson also participated in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference Annual Martin Luther King Gala, and said it was inspiring.

Report of the Chief of Police - Chief Charlie Beck reported that, unfortunately, there were six homicides and two officer involved shootings over the weekend. Chief Beck consulted with District Attorney Jackie Lacey to proceed with the administrative side of the investigation of the Venice officer involved shooting incident with Brenden Glenn. There are currently 9,918 sworn employees, 2676 civilian employees, and almost 7,000 Cadets.

The Department and the Inspector General provided a verbal presentation on the status of tracking Police Officer injured on duty status . Police Administrator Francois Gardere reported that the Department is working on essentially combining two programs to streamline the database used to manage injured on duty cases. He anticipates that the new system will be operative in November of 2016. All reports can be obtained now however, there is approximately a one day wait time. Currently, there are 323 injury on duty cases at LAPD (sworn and civilian). Thirty-seven of the cases are long-term (longer than six months), and 275 are short-term (less than six months). Mr. Gardere also discussed the ways in which the Department detects and follows up on fraudulent claims. Assistant Inspector General Kevin Rogan found the Department's analysis comprehensive and representative of the current status.

All remaining items, including, the Department's report, relative to the probationary police officer procedures follow-up audit , the Department's report, relative to the approval of selected vendors to provide security guard services for Security Services Division and other city departments , and the Department's report, relative to the approval to negotiate an agreement with selected vendor, Telmate, for Inmate Telephone Services and Video Visitation System , were approved

At the Police Commission Meeting on January 12, 2016

Report of the Chief of Police - Chief Charlie Beck noted that Commander Andy Smith would be recognized in City Council shortly and he would need to temporarily leave the meeting. He thanked Commissioners Matthew Johnson and Sandra Figueroa-Villa for their attendance at the annual LAPD Martin Luther King Breakfast, noting that Commissioner Johnson?s speech was inspiring. This breakfast marks Assistant Chief Earl Paysinger?s last, as he will be retiring this year. Assistant Chief Paysinger created this breakfast in 2009. On Wednesday, January 13 th , the Chief will join the mayor to present the annual crime statistics for 2015. Chief Beck also reported that he referred an officer involved shooting incident, which occurred in Venice last year, to the District Attorney's Office for criminal filing. This decision did not come easily to him but he felt that it was appropriate given the evidence. He asked the Commission consider delaying the closed session hearing of this particular case until the District Attorney has made a decision.

All Consent and Regular items on the agenda were approved.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the Police Commission Meeting on January 5, 2016

For the Report of the Chief of Police, Assistant Chief Earl Paysinger was sitting in for Chief Charlie Beck. Commissioner Johnson asked to bypass the report in anticipation of Chief Beck joining the meeting later and being able to provide it himself. However, as the meeting proceeded, it became clear Chief Beck would not be able to attend, and Chief Paysinger proceeded with a brief crime report overview near the end of the meeting.

There were 17 Consent Agenda Items (3A through 3Q), one of which, Item 3A, was pulled from the agenda for a later date. The remaining items were approved. Some were immediately approved while others were approved after mostly public comments.

The meeting proceeded directly to the Regular Agenda Items. There were two items, and the commissioners approved the items with no discussion after public comments. The items were approved as follows:

• Item 4A, the Department's Report, dated December 21, 2015, relative to the grant application and award acceptance funded under the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services for the 2015 California Coverdell Program, as set forth, was approved.
  
• Item 4B, the Department's Report, dated December 23, 2015, relative to the grant application and award for the 2015/16 Internet Crimes Against Children program from the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services, as set forth, was approved.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~