LACP.org
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Forum Articles - 2008
LA Community Policing
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Below you'll find the many "Main Articles" from the
LACP website this year, listed by the month
they appeared with a brief description of what's
inside. Scroll down to find them.
  
Click here for other year's articles:
2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010,
2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020
...Departments:    
LACP Press Release - Jan, 2003   - former film and television editor, Bill Murray, admits that running the nine-month-old LACP website has taken over his life - a tremendous amount of time goes into the effort, now a nonprofit (not yet funded)
Police Commission honors LA Community Policing   - the LA Police Commission honored Los Angeles Community Policing (LACP.org) on October 29, 2002, by awarding its founder, Bill Murray, with a Certificate of Appreciation
 
- recent comments and criticisms from the LACP "stakeholders" - community members, LAPD officers and City officials
 
- a list of articles from Dr. Arthur Jones and Dr. Robin Weisman, consultants and authors on international policing, social policy and human rights
...Main Articles 2008:    
Something Worth Taxpayers' Money Dec by Kristyan Kouri - OPINION - EDITOR'S NOTE: This first appeared as an Editorial Opinion piece in the LA Daily News - Several weeks ago I heard a news report that a recent survey showed that two-thirds of Americans would be willing to give up 5 percent of their pay if it meant saving someone else's job. I was happy to hear this statistic because it leads me to believe that the majority of Americans are concerned about the well-being of their fellow citizens. It also leads me to believe that the majority of Californians would agree to pay higher taxes if it not only meant keeping our state's social service agencies afloat, but if it also meant saving the jobs of the people who work for those institutions such as teachers, nurses and police officers.
Will You Help Los Angeles Neighbors in Crisis Dec by Brian Humphrey, LAFD Spokesman - Can you see yourself as a trained volunteer, working alongside Los Angeles Police Officers and Firefighters to assist your neighbors in their time of need? The LAFD, LAPD and Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa are encouraging local residents to join the City of Los Angeles Crisis Response Team volunteer program. Crisis Response Teams (CRT) are groups of trained volunteers on call to provide immediate, short-term on-scene support and guidance to families, neighbors, witnesses and survivors in their community traumatized by fire, serious injury, death or violent crime. City of Los Angeles CRT training begins Tuesday, January 27, 2009.
LAPD's "Most Wanted" - a Daily News community project Dec by the LA Daily News newspaper - The LA Daily News is now offering a community tool that lists LAPD's "Most Wanted" and most dangerous criminals in numerous categories including identity theft, burglary, auto theft, assault, robbery, hit and run, kidnapping, DUI, insurance fraud, murder, grand theft, forgery, attempted murder and sex crimes. One can also conduct searches in the data base by first or last name, sex of the offender or race. EDITOR'S NOTE: Obviously you should notify LAPD if you locate anyone using this tool. Do NOT attempt to approach any of these individuals yourself. That's a law enforcement job and responsibility.
Something for the Ladies of Skid Row and Beyond Dec by SLO Deon Joseph . December 23, 2008 . Hello everyone and Happy Holidays.  I am Senior Lead Officer Deon Joseph of LAPD Central Community Police Station.  Although crime is down due to the continued efforts of the Safer Cities Initiative, there are still many marginalized classes of individuals who are vulnerable to the harshness of Skid Row.  Mixed in with these vulnerable groups is the criminal element such as 400 registered sex offenders (and climbing), as well as sex offenders who have not been caught yet committing crimes of a sexual nature. Over the years, one of the groups I have identified that is more vulnerable to sex crimes and domestic violence are the women of Skid Row.  Many of them have expressed to me that they have been victimized sexually, but never reported the crime due to misinformation they received from various sources about reporting crimes to the police.
Gun Fire Suppression Dec by LAPD - As people make their plans to celebrate the holidays, the Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department have been working for the past few months on the New Years Eve Gunfire Reduction Campaign. The Gunfire Reduction Campaign aims to educate people that it is illegal to celebrate the New Year by shooting a gun into the air.  Discharging a firearm into the air is a felony punishable by one year in state prison.  Anyone arrested for discharging a firearm will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Los Angeles City Budget. What's Important To You? Dec by LA Fire Department - The City of Los Angeles is facing major financial challenges over the next few years that will affect many facets of each of our lives. Mayor Villaraigosa and other City leaders are asking for your input on the performance and necessity of the services provided by the City and to help them place priorities on the levels to maintain. Mayor Villaraigosa and City Leaders are conducting an online survey, and all stakeholders are encouraged to take this survey to convey your concerns regarding the priorities City leaders should establish when developing the City's budget. EDITOR'S NOTE: Take the City's survey, available inside.
Protecting the People's Right To Know Dec by Laura Chick (EDITOR'S NOTE: This is an Open Letter sent out by Los Angeles City Controller Laura Chick) Dear Friend, There has been discussion in the press about a “fight” between the City Attorney and myself. I'm writing to personally up-date you regarding this issue. In fact the disagreement is over the City Controller's charter mandated responsibilities to conduct performance audits. Section 261 (k) of the City Charter clearly says that the Controller shall “conduct performance audits of all departments and may conduct performance audits of City programs. Despite this language, the City Attorney has formally interpreted the charter to prohibit the Controller from conducting performance audits of programs if they are housed in elected officials' offices.
The LAPD Launches 8th Annual Community Toy Drive Dec Los Angeles: Surrounded by students from Para Los Niños School, Chief William Bratton kicked off the LAPD's Annual Angels Community Book & Toy Drive at his monthly Media Availability News Conference on Wednesday morning. At the news conference, Chief Bratton announced the beginning of the 8th Annual “LAPD Angels Community Book & Toy Drive.”  He encouraged members of our community to donate unwrapped toys or gently used books at any of the Department's 19 community police stations.  “I ask people donating books to write an inspirational message on the inside cover, wishing the child a happy and prosperous New Year,” said Chief Bratton. Chief Bratton and female members of the Los Angeles Police Department passed out books provided by Jim Wiatt, CEO of the William Morris Agency and toys provided by JAKKS Pacific Inc. to students from Para Los Niños Charter School.
L.A., the next Mumbai? -- community policing matters!! Dec Police Chief William Bratton and his counter-terrorism commander, Deputy Chief Michael Downing, assess the risks and readiness in the city. (EDITOR'S NOTE: This appeared in the LA Times, December 5, 2008) Are there lessons for Los Angeles in Mumbai's tragedy? Times editorial writer Marjorie Miller asked Los Angeles Police Chief William J. Bratton and his counter-terrorism commander, Deputy Chief Michael Downing, to discuss the potential for terrorism in Los Angeles and what law enforcement is doing to prepare for it. Here is an edited transcript of their discussion. When discussing counter-terrorism, community policing matters ..
New Boeckmann Gallery at LA Police Historical Society Museum Dec Los Angeles: At 7 p.m. on Dec. 2, 2008, the Los Angeles Police Historical Society Museum will have an unveiling ceremony for its new Boeckmann Gallery, dedicated to the history of the Los Angeles Police Commission and the achievements of one of its most accomplished Commissioners, Herbert F. Boeckman, III. Herbert F. "Bert" Boeckmann III, served on the Police Commission for more than 16 years, serving as both President and Vice President of the Commission during his tenure.  The LAPD and the Police Commission benefited greatly from his guidance both during times of turmoil and times of great accomplishment.
Happy Thanksgiving Nov from a friend . 11/27/08 - Wise words from a different era - ..we all share a freedom afforded us by insightful and forward looking spirits who understood the true meaning of Thanksgiving.
A Thought on Community from a Skid Row Cop Nov The Webster's definition of community is a unified body of individuals.  It is also defined as a body of people living together with a common interest. Many people have debated if Skid Row is worthy of being dubbed a Community. But in my walks through Skid Row over the years, I have met people who believe that though they live in one of the most crime ridden areas in this country, they still have pride in this area because it is their home, and they desire safe clean streets.  There are people who live and work down here like any other community.  There are families and parks here, like other communities. 
We are all in this together Nov by the Rev. Andy Bales .OPINION .The recent fires around Southern California will undoubtedly spark giving and generosity to those who have been affected; but with the current state of the economy, it may be difficult for some to do so. Individuals and organizations alike are cutting back their discretionary spending. The Charity Navigator, a nonprofit organization that evaluates charities, reports that it is usually the food banks, shelters and other human-services agencies that hurt the most during bad times.
Prop 8 passing protests and the City's Best Blues (and Khakis) Nov by Marc H. Whittemore . Mr. Whittemore, a resident of Los Angeles, gives a personal detailed account of his encounters and interactions with LAPD Personnel during his protests of Proposition 8.  His personal journey ends with his next step in his involvement with the LAPD and serving the community. . If I were a completely sane gay man I would at the very least be soaking my entire self in some serious Epsom salts.  Or even just washing 8 hours of (Prop 8 passing) protest marching grime and sand off my bone tired, dried-sweat-river-trail-marked body.  But, since I make no such claim, I am safe.
Sayre Fire: Hallowed Ground For Firefighters Nov by Brian Humphrey, LAFD Spokesman - Having been away from Los Angeles this week and mourning the loss of a friend, mentor and legendary firefighter - it was with compounded sadness that I joined you in watching our beloved City ablaze. Though off-duty and unable to respond from afar, my personal cellphone rang through the night with calls from reporters seeking "the story". With the initial Command Post for the Sayre Fire listed as El Cariso Park, I politely guided journalists to the site by instinct, asking them but one favor: "Please, tell the story behind the name of El Cariso Park" With the flames too tempting a focus, nary a reporter would ask the question. A question which when answered, would put both meaning and perspective into the Herculean effort of firefighters working the Sayre Wildland Fire.
LA County - Aid for "Sayre" Fire Victims Nov by Lori Wheeler, Deputy to Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky . Dear Neighbors, I am forwarding you some information regarding the opening of Local Assistance for the "Sayre" Fire Victims in Sylmar. Please feel free to forward on to anyone who you may know who was affected and needs assistance. Over 600 families have lost their home, cars and everything in them. Many didn't have adequate insurance, and many others have minimal resources. The outpouring of support and donations has been overwhelming. There is a fund set up at St. Didacus Church where you can make monetary donations and know that the victims will be the ones receiving these funds. For more information, please contact St. Didacus Church at 14337 Astoria St. Sylmar, CA 91342 (818) 367-6181
The Public's Help Requested in Locating Fire Evacuees Nov from LAPD - November 17, 2008 - Los Angeles: Numerous evacuees from the Oakridge Modular Home Neighborhood have yet to check in with any public service agency. On November 17, 2008, it was announced that there is now a high degree of confidence that all residence of the Oakridge Neighborhood escaped or were otherwise safely evacuated from the path of the devastating fire.  While this was abundantly good news and a testament to the bravery of a number of good neighbors and members of the Police and Fire Departments, it does not fully relieve the Police Department of the responsibility for a proper accounting of all evacuees.  Approximately 360 adult's persons representing 360 individual residences in the complex contacted the American Red Cross or the Police Department and provided verifiable information which was used to determine their safety and whereabouts.  In many cases those individuals verified the safety for themselves and their immediate household members.
CERT at Flu Vaccination Clinics -- FREE Flue Shots Nov The LAFD CERT Unit has asked for CERT members to assist with registration and other admin duties at flu vaccination clinics this week. Let your family, friends and neighborhood know! .. Come get your FREE Flu shot, courtesy of the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health and the City of LA! Be a part of your local community's effort to partner with first responders to enhance local emergency preparedness! The Flu causes fever, sore throat, cough, chills, headache, and muscle aches. Each year in the U.S., more than 114,000 people are hospitalized and about 36,000 die because of influenza-related illnesses.
News & Information Digest from LA Fire Department Nov by Brian Humphrey, LAFD Spokesman - Dear Friend of the LAFD, Periodically, we share a digest of *non-incident* articles from the Los Angeles Fire Department blog. We welcome you to click the links below that interest you... And, if you know someone who would like to join (or leave) our e-mail list simply have them visit the link provded. EDITOR'S NOTE: Be sure to visit all the links and join Brian's email list to keep getting LAFD News and Info !
CAIR: Zawahri Does Not Speak for Muslims Nov (WASHINGTON, D.C., 11/19/08) - A prominent national Islamic civil rights and advocacy group today condemned threatening rhetoric and racial slurs contained in a new video by Ayman al-Zawahri and said Al-Qaida's second-in-command does not speak for Muslims in this country or worldwide. "As Muslims and as Americans, we will never let terrorist groups or terror leaders falsely claim to represent us or our faith. The legitimate grievances of Muslims in many areas of the world can never serve as an excuse or a justification for attacks on civilian populations. We once again repudiate Al-Qaida's actions, rhetoric and worldview and re-state our condemnation of all forms of terrorism and religious extremism."
The Great Southern California ShakeOut a Success Nov The Great Southern California ShakeOut - from LAPD . November 13, 2008 - Over 5.2 million Southern Californians dropped, covered and held on during the massive SoCal Shakeout Drill held across the Golden State this morning.  The exercise, which simulated a 7.8 magnitude earthquake along the San Andreas Fault in Southern California, tested the response and communication systems of over 5000 first responders from more than 100 federal, state, and local agencies. Participants throughout six local counties, and their cities, took part in safety and evacuation drills, including simulated fire/rescue scenarios.
Click It or Ticket Campaign Aims for Safe Thanksgiving Nov Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department, in an effort to help bring everyone home safe for the holidays, will be aggressively enforcing the State's seat belt and child safety seat laws during a Click It or Ticket  mobilization, taking place November 17-30, 2008.  The campaign relies on heavy enforcement and public education as a means to help reduce deaths and injuries on California's roadways.  California currently has a seat belt use rate at 95.7 percent. “The Click It or Ticket campaign has shown that Californians have gotten the message that seat belts work,” said Police Sergeant Bob Rieboldt.  “However, drivers and passengers are still dying every year because they did not buckle up. Our officers will not accept excuses or give warnings.  It really is Click It or Ticket.”
Firefighters Team with KTLA For 1 Day Food Drive Nov Firefighters Team with KTLA For 1 Day Food Drive - by Brian Humphrey, LAFD Spokesman - Dear Friend of the LAFD, The Los Angeles Fire Department and Los Angeles County Fire Department are teaming with KTLA-TV Channel 5 for a one day food drive to help the less fortunate this holiday season. This one day only event will be held on Tuesday, November 25, 2008 from 6:00AM to 11:00PM. All City and County of Los Angeles Fire Stations will serve as collection points, to gratefully gather only non-perishable food items, such as canned goods. For an interactive map to help you find the closest station, please visit the link provided inside.
5 Million People Getting Ready to ShakeOut! Nov from Cert-LA . In less than a week, at 10 a.m. on November 13, over 5 million Southern Californians, wherever they are a the time, will take part in the largest earthquake preparedness activity in U.S. history! The ShakeOut is a chance to practice drop, cover, and hold on so that we will be ready to protect ourselves in earthquakes. There is still time to register if you have not yet. ShakeOut Drill Broadcasts and other videos Audio and video recordings are now available to download and play during the ShakeOut Drill. The recordings include instructions for what to do during earthquakes, and provide an experience of how long  shaking would last during a big earthquake. In addition, a remarkable new short film, "Preparedness Now" vividly depicts the consequences of the ShakeOut earthquake and how we must all prepare now. EDITOR'S NOTE: Please take advantage of these unique experiences to be Earthquake READY !!!
The Great Southern California ShakeOut Nov The Great Southern California ShakeOut - At 10 a.m. on November 13, join millions of Southern Californians in the ShakeOut Drill, the largest earthquake preparedness activity in U.S. history! The Great Southern California ShakeOut includes the ShakeOut Drill and other events to help us get ready for big earthquakes, and to prevent disasters from becoming catastrophes.
Earthquake Preparedness . . its EVERYONE's business Nov The Great Southern California "ShakeOut" - an unprecedented week of events this November that will inspire Southern Californians to get ready for big earthquakes and keep our disasters from becoming catastrophes. . The ShakeOut drill will occur in houses, businesses, and public spaces throughout southern California at 10AM on November 13, 2008. ShakeOut will involve residents, businesses, communities, and schools in the largest-ever emergency response exercise and public drill, where millions of Southern Californians practice what to do during and after a major quake.
News & Information Digest from LA Fire Department Nov News & Information Digest - LA Fire Department - by Brian Humphrey, LAFD Spokesman . Dear Friend of the LAFD, Periodically, we share a digest of *non-incident* articles from the Los Angeles Fire Department blog. We welcome you to click the links below that interest you. Also please remember look at the dates for upcoming important events. Finally, if you know someone who would like to join (or leave) our e-mail list simply have them visit the link provded. EDITOR'S NOTE: Be sure to visit all the links !
Chief Bratton Responds to Public Concerns about DNA Tests, more Oct Chief Bratton Responds to Public Concerns about DNA Tests, more - Controller Laura Chick's Audit Spurs Comments - also: finger printing and racial profiling . Chief William Bratton spoke to the media Monday evening at a news conference held in Los Angeles to respond to several recent accusations of the Department's handling of backlogged DNA cases, latent finger print issues, and racial profiling.  On October 20, at about 5:30 p.m., Chief Bratton spoke to the media before a previously scheduled Public Police Commission Meeting near downtown.  During the news conference Chief Bratton acknowledged LA City Controller Laura Chick's, just released audit, in which it was reported that the LAPD has a backlog of more than 7000 sexual assault kits. The report called for a three year plan to reduce the backlog and to take measures to assure it never grows to that proportion again.
City Controller Laura Chick Releases Rape Kit Audit Oct Chick Releases Rape Kit Audit - Report recommends action - October 20, 2008
Los Angeles – City Controller Laura Chick has released a Rape Kit Audit, and sent a cover letter that said: Today I released one of the most startling and important audits since becoming Controller over seven years ago. It is also one that I am personally most passionate about.  There is not a woman alive who hasn't thought, with fear in the pit of her stomach, about the possibility of being raped and sexually assaulted. See the Executive Summary and Recommendations or download the full report.
The LAPD and racial profiling - OPINION Oct by Ian Ayres, Yale Law School - OPINION - On Monday, the ACLU of Southern California released a report analyzing more than 700,000 cases in which Los Angeles Police Department officers stopped pedestrians and/or drivers of motor vehicles between July 2003 and June 2004. The study, which I wrote with my research assistant, Jonathan Borowsky, asked not simply whether African Americans and Latinos are stopped and searched by the LAPD more often than whites -- it's clear that they are -- but the more complex question of whether these racial disparities are justified by legitimate policing practices, such as deciding to police more aggressively in high-crime neighborhoods. EDITOR'S NOTE: What do you think? Do we still have a major racial profiling problem in Los Angeles?
Invitation to Arts and Cultural Community Meetings - in Oct & Nov Oct The City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs is holding a series of community meetings throughout Los Angeles.  Feedback from the meetings is essential to develop the City's new Cultural Master Plan which will provide a vision for the future of arts and culture in Los Angeles, and guide the mission of the Department of Cultural Affairs. The meetings will start promptly and include a presentation and interactive sessions. See the list of meetings being held througout LA in October and November ..
A Twice-Told Tale of Black, Brown & LAPD Blue Oct by Jerry Sullivan - from LAPD blog - OPINION - This is a story of heartbreak and hope - and neither end of the tale made the news. A curious combination of factors recently led me to these events on a street in South Los Angeles, where worn houses and skinny palm trees can sometimes trick you into seeing nothing much. Then a crumpled baby bottle near a truck's tire caught my eye and kicked me in the gut. The bottle belonged to a toddler who had just been crushed to death. The mother lost track of the baby. The baby crawled behind the wheel of a neighbor's truck. The neighbor didn't notice the child there. EDITOR'S NOTE: Here's an offering from Jerry Sullivan that appeard in the LAPD blog. With all the discussion of "racial profiling" in LAPD, we thought it important to show you this perspective, too. LA Community Policing is of the opinion that this is representative of the "typical" LAPD .. the one we know.
Fire Weather Forecast For Los Angeles - LA Fire Department Oct by Brian Humphrey, LAFD Spokesman . As we enter the peak of wildfire season in Southern California, the increasing danger of vegetation fires is apparent, both regional and local . To assist you in preparing for this cyclical nemesis, the LA Fire Department is pleased to share regional Fire Weather reports issued twice daily by the National Weather Service. We remind you that the regional reports mentioned above are completely separate from any local declaration that may enact special Red Flag Parking Restrictions!
Legislation to Protect American Film Production Jobs is Signed into Law Oct by Congressman Xavier Becerra . Earlier this month President Bush signed the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act.  Included in the bill was the Runaway Productions Prevention Act (H.R. 3951), legislation authored by Rep. Xavier Becerra (CA-31), Assistant to the Speaker of the House and the only congressional member from Southern California on the Ways and Means Committee, that aims to protect and create moviemaking jobs by attracting film and television production projects back to the United States. While Rep. Becerra voted against the flawed economic rescue bill, he is pleased to see that this important protection for American film workers was included in it. "At such a distressing time for our economy I am pleased to see that we are finally leveling the playing field for American film workers by encouraging producers to continue making movies domestically,” Rep. Becerra said. “The improvements to this valuable tax credit, which I have advocated for, will have a lasting and positive impact on Southern California's economy."
Death row realism - Do executions make us safer? Oct by Jeanne Woodford . As the warden of San Quentin, I presided over four executions. After each one, someone on the staff would ask, "Is the world safer because of what we did tonight?" We knew the answer: No. I worked in corrections for 30 years, starting as a correctional officer and working my way up to warden at San Quentin and then on to the top job in the state -- director of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. During those years, I came to believe that the death penalty should be replaced with life without the possibility of parole. This Open Letter also appeared as an OPINION piece in the LA Times.. What do you think?
SPAY DAY L.A. and ADOPT-A-THON! - LA Animal Services Oct Hundreds of dogs, cats and rabbits are looking for a new home! | Make an appointment for free or low-cost spay or neuter of your pets: Saturday, Oct 25th 9:00am ~ 3:00pm; West LA Animal Care Center, 11361 W. Pico Blvd, or Sunday, Oct 26th 9:00am ~ 3:00pm; LAAS Harbor Care Center. 957 N. Gaffey Street Please refer to the SPAY DAY L.A. and ADOPT-A-THON! - FLYER for details ..
LAPD Police Commission - Community Meeting - Oct 20 - all invited Oct LAPD Police Commission Community Meeting - October 20, 6:30pm
Southwestern Law School, 3050 Wilshire Boulevard. Los Angeles, California 90077
- Join the Los Angeles Police Commissioners for a community meeting at Southwestern Law School.  Special guests include Los Angeles Council Member Herb Wesson and Police Chief William Bratton. The Los Angeles Police Commission meets periodically in the community
to meet and hear the perspective of the community members they serve. The five-member panel is the civilian oversight and policy-making body over the Los Angeles Police Department. All Police Commissioners are appointed by the Mayor of Los Angeles and serve on a voluntary basis, serving an average of twenty hours per week in this capacity.
2 Town Hall Meetings - Saturday, October 11 - 11am and 1:30pm at Congress Oct The Board of Neighborhood Commissioners will hold two Town Hall sessions on Saturday, October 11, 2008, at 11 am and 1:30 pm at the Citywide Congress of Neighborhoods to learn about and provide input on the various limited personal financial disclosure options for neighborhood councils currently under consideration.  The Town Hall format is an opportunity for us to hear from neighborhood council members and stakeholders. .See the Town Hall FLYER inside ... UPDATE: Attached are notes from the Oct 7, 2008, Town Hall session.
Citywide Congress of Neighborhoods - Saturday, Octover 11th Oct Citywide Congress of Neighborhoods - Saturday, October 11 - 7:30 am to 3:00 pm - Invitation to Attend - FREE !!! Join us on October 11, 2008, for the Citywide Congress of Neighborhoods.  Please see the article for a list of workshops and activities of the Congress and an overview of what the event has to offer.  Participate in this opportunity to have a voice in City Governance ..
News & Information Digest from LA Fire Department Oct by Brian Humphrey, LAFD Spokesman - This is Fire Prevention Week! - Dear Friend of the LAFD, Periodically, we share a digest of *non-incident* articles from the Los Angeles Fire Department blog. It's been a while since our last digest, so this one is a tad longer than usual. We welcome you to click the links inside that interest you... EDITOR'S NOTE: Be sure to visit all the links !
BONC / DONE Town Hall Meeting - Oct 7th, 6pm in Palms Oct "Should NC Board Members Be Required To File Financial Discolsure Statements?" - The Board of Neighborhood Commissioners and the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment invite you to a Town Hall meeting on Tuesday, October 7, 2008, at 6 p.m., at Palms Elementary School - Auditorium located at 3520 Motor Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90034. The purpose of this Town Hall meeting is to gather public input.  See the FLYER and AGENDA inside for more info.
Governor Signs Important Disaster Victim Protection Bill Sept Civil Rights Groups, Disaster Aid Organizations Applaud New Law - Governor Schwarzenegger signed a package of public safety bills he said would enhance the state's emergency response efforts. AB 2327 requires public employees who provide evacuees with disaster-related assistance to do so without asking for information or documents not strictly necessary to determine eligibility for the services."At a time of crisis, humanitarian principles should be prioritized in emergency responses policies and practices," said Andrea Guerrero, Field & Policy Director of the ACLU of San Diego & Imperial Counties. "We are grateful that the California legislature and the governor recognized this serious public policy and health and safety issue, and moved decisively to fix the problem."
The LAPD's May Day Secrecy - bad for us and bad for the officers Sept LA Times OPINION . Last week, LAPD Chief Bill Bratton recommended that four officers be fired and 11 disciplined because of their actions in the May Day 2007 "melee." But for all of Bratton's efforts at transparency, the final and perhaps most important chapter of the probe will elude public oversight and will, unfortunately, leave questions about whether the responsible parties were held to account. Are they the right officers to punish? Are they being unfairly scapegoated for administrative bungling? Do their actions warrant even stiffer penalties? The public will never know -- because the Police Commission two years ago scrapped the open board of rights hearings that served the city well for more than a quarter of a century. Now, the 15 officers will present their appeals and be punished or exonerated without the public even knowing who they are. .EDITOR'S NOTE: We'd like to know .. What do you think?
Mayor Villaraigosa Takes Action to Ensure City's Financial Health Sept Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa took action to ensure the financial health of the City of Los Angeles by directing key city department heads to immediately conduct a review and risk assessment of the possible impact of the national economic crisis on city government's operations, finances and pension systems.“We will not allow the unsound and unconscionable practices of Wall Street to stop the progress we've made on increasing the public's safety and improving the delivery of basic city services,” Mayor Villaraigosa said in a memo send to city department heads late Monday.“As city leaders, we have an opportunity and obligation to demonstrate strong fiscal management to ensure the financial health of the city and to protect every taxpayer dollar.” Mayor Villaraigosa directed key city departments to review the city's pension funds, debt portfolios, possible future bond expenditures and proposed capital projects.
Railroad control system should be put in place Sept by Senator Dianne Feinstein . OPINION . Federal investigators are closing in on exactly what put a Metrolink commuter train, carrying 225 passengers leaving Los Angeles, into a deadly head-on collision Sept. 12 with a Union Pacific freight train in the San Fernando Valley. The death toll is at 25, and more than 135 are injured, many critically. So, this past week, I introduced legislation with Sen. Barbara Boxer that would put a stop to these needless and tragic accidents. The legislation would require railroads to install "positive train control" systems, which prevent collisions from happening. High-risk lines, where passenger and freight share the same tracks, would have to have it in place by the end of 2012. All other major rail lines would have to have it in place by the end of 2014.
CAIR-LA 'Towelhead' Dialogue to be Included on DVD Sept The Greater LA Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-LA) announced that a filmed dialogue on racism and ethnic slurs will be featured on the DVD release of the new Warner Bros. production "Towelhead." CAIR-LA Executive Director Hussam Ayloush participated in the dialogue that sought to highlight the intolerance inherent in the derogatory term "towelhead" and bring attention to community concerns about the possible acceptance of that term in mainstream society. The dialogue is now available for viewing on the film's website.
Chief of Police to Mete Out Discipline for May Day 2007 Sept In addition to a report on 23 recommendations for institutional reform the Board of Police Commissioners was presented with the details of the discipline to be meted out by the Chief of Police for misconduct committed on May 1, 2007. The personnel complaint investigation alone represented over 12,000 hours of work and was the most exhaustive investigation in Department history.  Many sworn and civilian personnel of all ranks completed witness and complainant interviews, a detailed analysis of video tape and still photography, and numerous updates and comprehensive reports. Twenty-nine named officers were charged with one or more acts or omissions, for a combined total of 80 allegations.  The Chief of Police sustained 31 allegations against 15 officers.  Among the officers disciplined, three will also receive a reduction in paygrade and four will be transferred from Metropolitan Division. Read the entire May 1, 2007 REPORT
Financial Disclosure and Council Files - LANCC Recommends Action Sept by Len Shaffer, Chair, LANC Coalition . To: LANCC Members, all NC Board Members and all Stakeholders:  How does that old saying go, be careful what you wish for?  The saga of the financial disclosure forms and council files took an unexpected turn at last Tuesday's E&N meeting.  Once the discussion of the Ethics Commission forms 52 and 53 (52 was the one that related specifically to CFs and 53 was the revised one that would be filled out by all board members each year) the subject of a continuance was advanced by Councilmember Dennis Zine. 
Neighborhoods deserve some say in City Hall - Daily News OPINION Sept LA Daily News - OPINION - All politicians in Los Angeles say publicly that they support the neighborhood councils. Those on the City Council, at least, have the chance to prove their support by adopting these recommendations. The result might cost them some time. It might embolden some neighborhood councils to propose ridiculous legislation. It might force a longer review of policy issues. But so what? The council members are elected to do the business of the people. And the neighborhood councils - for all their flaws, their quirks and their characters - are the people. EDITOR'S NOTE: LACP agrees wholeheartedly with this LA Daily News OPINION article ..
Police Performance Management in Practice: Taking COMPSTAT to the Next Level Sept by William J. Bratton and Sean W. Malinowski . September 9, 2008 - Taking COMPSTAT to the Next Level . This article written by Lieutenant Malinowski and Chief of Police Bill Bratton has been published as an OPINION piece by the Oxford University Press, "Policing: A Journal of Policy and Practice" in the United Kingdom. By measuring the performance of police managers whilst holding them to account for crimes, they explain the role COMPSTAT played in fighting crime in these areas and look forward to see how police can continue to innovate and expand upon existing police performance measures. Read the entire article here ..
New Rampart Police Station - Grand Opening Sept September 5, 2008 - The new and improved Rampart Community Police Station was unveiled this morning to a crowd of dignitaries, neighborhood leaders and community members.  The audience cheered on as politicians and Police Chief William Bratton cut the ceremonial ribbon, inviting all to come in and tour the new station.  The ceremony presided by Captain John Egan, Rampart Commanding Officer, included a presentation by Council District 1 Councilmember Ed Reyes and the proud announcement of LA City Engineer Gary Lee Moore that the new state-of-the-art facility had received the prestigious gold-certification by the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. . See the MP3 podcast of the Rampart Station's Grand Opening !
Help with the City of Los Angeles Cultural Master Plan Sept The City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) is creating a new Cultural Master Plan that will develop a shared vision for the role that arts and culture should play in our community, and provide recommendations to further the development of Los Angeles as a national and international artistic center. We want to hear from as many people as possible and learn what inspires people about art and culture in LA, what is missing, and what DCA can do to make our shared vision a reality. Please take our DCA survey here.
Anonymous Tips May Help Solve Major Cases Sept Anonymous Tips May Help Solve Major Cases -- Text the police anonymously from cell phones .. or use the web! -- from LAPD September 17, 2008
Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) announced the implementation of an anonymous crime tip reporting system which uses a common e-mail and cell phone texting platform.  The Honorable Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Sheriff Lee Baca joined Chief William Bratton this morning to unveil the new software applications and provided an update on three major cases currently being handled by LAPD's Robbery Homicide Detectives.
The Revised "Form 52" Threatens NC Council Files Sept by Len Shaffer, Chair, LANC Coalition . To: LANCC Members, all NC Board Members and all Stakeholders:  We have a problem.  How an idea that started as an attempt to give more meaning to the word “advisory” when applied to neighborhood councils could have been so subverted is somewhat beyond me. What I'm talking about is "Form 52" .. the latest recommendation by the staff of the Ethics Commission for the meeting scheduled for this Friday, Sept 5th.  Take action!
Going global to fight gangs Aug by Rocky Delgadillo, LA City Attorney . The two fastest-growing and most powerful gangs in the world are homegrown products of Los Angeles. The Mara Salvatrucha gang, or MS-13, and the 18th Street gang, known in Central America as Mara 18, sprang up in Pico-Union and the densely populated neighborhoods around MacArthur Park. But unlike many local street gangs, these two were entrepreneurial: They recruited Central American immigrants across the city and then expanded farther -- throughout Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. Conservative estimates put MS-13's ranks at 20,000 and 18th Street's at 30,000 worldwide.
NEW! - Council File Management System - online access to City Council Aug NEW! - Council File Management System - (formerly the Council File Index System) by BongHwan Kim, DONE General Manager , I am pleased to announce and make available to you a new Council File Management System (CFMS), which will replace the existing Council File Index system on Monday, August 11, 2008. The CFMS is a complete redesign and rewrite from top to bottom of the Council File Index system and includes a number of new features and enhancements, including the ability to subscribe to automatic notifications when a Council file has been updated. See the details inside ...
LAPD Announces New Features on LAPDonline.org Aug from LAPD . The Los Angeles Police Department has announced a new and improved website with new e-policing features on their website, www.lapdonline.org: LAPDTV.org and satellite technology. One of the most comprehensive law enforcement websites on the Internet, www.lapdonline.org was first launched in 1998 and then overhauled and re-launched in 2006. The site has grown to 13,000 pages, has incorporated some of the most user friendly crime maps, and has added videos and a blog…setting the standard for police departments worldwide. Its tremendous popularity is evidenced by the fact that it receives more than 4 million page views monthly, including its blog, which averages up to 1,500 page views every day.  This is terrific news!  Check out the newly revised LAPD web site!
LAPD Reserve Recruitment Ad to Hit the Airwaves Aug from LAPD . The Los Angeles Police Department has unveiled its new reserve recruitment radio spot, which will soon hit the airwaves.  The advertisement is part of a media campaign aimed at recruiting men and women who want to protect their community as reserve police officers while continuing in their chosen careers.  The spot was voiced by Ashton Smith, an LAPD reserve officer and a top movie trailer and television voice-over artist.  He has voiced television promos for most Hollywood blockbusters and for CBS, TNT, TBS, HBO, ESPN and others.  Today over 650 citizens volunteer their time as active reserve officers.  Maybe you should consider doing this too!. 
National Night Out 2008 a big success Aug As part of a national campaign, the LAPD fully participated in this year's National Night Out.  With communities across the country holding events to raise awareness, the LAPD held nothing back as the Department partnered with various organizations in bringing a night of family fun to the people of Los Angeles. There were approximately 60 city-wide events held as part of the National Night Out campaign.  In its 25th year, the National Night Out campaign is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support and participation in local anti-crime programs, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships, and to send a message to criminals that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. National Night Out was a huge success due to the hard work of many many law enforcement and community policing people, and those who attended and marched in the the event. . See the pictures we have from Hollenbeck Division inside.
Depury Sheriff slain in Cypress Park, Northeast LA Aug An off-duty Los Angeles County sheriff's deputy was gunned down early Saturday morning outside his house in the gang-ridden Cypress Park area of Northeast Los Angeles. No arrests have been made in the case. Officer Juan Escalante, 27, a 2½-year veteran of the department assigned to the county's Men's Central Jail, was found by his wife and his mother after a car passed by his house and someone inside fired several shots. "We know that the public at large is grieving the loss of a deputy sheriff, a new deputy sheriff who was in the department for just two years, working at our central jail," Sheriff Baca said. "As to whether this shooting this morning is gang-related, it is much too early to say," said LAPD's Chief Bratton, as investigators questioned witnesses.
Earthquake Preparedness . . its EVERYONE's business Aug Caltech Seminar Planned in Historic Northeast Los Angeles - sponsored by Montecito Heights Improvement Association and LA Community Policing, co-sponsors: the Lincoln Heights and Arroyo Seco Neighborhood Councils . The terrible earthquake devastation we recently saw in China could easily happen here in the LA region.  We all need to become as prepared as possible .. not "in case" but because we WILL have "the BIG one" .. and it could come at any time.  At least that's the opinion of all the experts.  The issue is urgent.  A number of residents from the Montecito Heights Improvement Association, along with LA Community Policing, have asked the knowledgeable folks from Caltech University in Pasadena to help us put on a seminar on the threat .. and what can be done about it.
National Night Out - Tuesday, August 5th Aug At Los Angeles Community Policing we believe active participation in community efforts is central to our mission ... to reduce crime and improve the quality of life. Each of the LAPD police stations supports this concept in a variety of ways, some more than others. But virtually all the Divisions sponsor an annual National Night Out event (or more than one).  Some hold vigils, some have a march through the community and others hold more traditional town hall style meetings. Regardless of what your local police station does, we encourage you to participate.  It's a lot of fun and a great way to meet both community members and police officers in a casual and friendly setting.. Find Out what's happening in YOUR area ..
Some advice re: noise -- when noise becomes too much Aug Its a quality of life issue .. and there ARE rules. Barking dogs, construction equipment, amplified musical instruments, trash trucks, and loud parties are all examples of noise found in major urban areas. Understandably, certain noise levels must be tolerated by all citizens in order for normal functions of urban life to continue. However, excessive, unnecessary, and/or annoying noise is subject to regulation. On March 29, 1982, the City Council adopted a new Noise Ordinance that established limits on noise pollution, set enforcement responsibilities, and provided penalties for violations. . See the list of ordinances collected here for your consideration
City Crime Rates Drop to Historic Lows Aug

LAPD Crime Stats Down to 1970 Levels . August 5, 2008 . Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Councilmember Jack Weiss and LAPD Police Chief William J. Bratton announced historically low crime rates in the City of Los Angeles. "Los Angeles is a resilient city, and a tide of safety and security is surging through the streets of our neighborhoods," Mayor Villaraigosa said. "Our success is the direct result of a comprehensive strategy that puts more cops in our communities and more resources in our neighborhoods. And LA's residents are reaping the benefits." “After six consecutive years of decreasing violent and property crimes,” said Chief Bratton during the news conference, “LAPD is moving in the right direction for an unprecedented seventh consecutive year of declining Part I Crimes.” The Department continues to work with local, state and federal law enforcement partners to devote resources to target specific areas of the City to address crime issues, and are confident that the Department  is well underway to making Los Angeles the safest big City in America. 
Gang Reduction Contracts for Programs Targeting At-Risk Youth July Process recommends merit-based contracts in areas of the City that need them most , Building on a new approach and an innovative strategy to reduce gang violence across the City, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa made recommendations to the City Council today for new gang prevention contracts in six areas facing the highest levels of gang crime in Los Angeles. The recommendations were issued following a rigorous application and review process developed by the Mayors Office of Gang Reduction and Youth Development (GRYD) and emphasizing the need for greater transparency, accountability and oversight. Each of the organizations was evaluated based on the merit of their applications, history of success, proposals for new programs, and record in the community.
Children, Hot Weather and Cars = Danger ! July by Brian Humphrey, LAFD Spokesman - The men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department ask you to consider and share some important safety tips for vehicles, children and hot weather. We need your help to make sure that no child dies needlessly by being left alone in a hot vehicle. Put something you'll need - such as your wireless phone, handbag, a sunshade, lunch or briefcase on the floor in the back seat. Get in the habit of opening the back door of your vehicle every time you reach a destination. This way, making sure no child is left behind will become a habit. Safety experts call this the "Look...Then Lock" campaign. Read all the suggestions ..
Community Impact Statements; A Primary Tool for Neighborhood Councils July by Dr. Daniel Wiseman . Community Impact Statements (CIS’s) are one of the most effective ways with which our Neighborhood Council can make its opinions known to the City Council. They are clearly and unequivocally documented, and are made known to the Council Members even before they are developing and deliberating the issue in committee or in City Council. CIS’s become part of the Council File (the documents which are the formal recommendations and motions which establish the policies and laws of our City). A CIS is seen by all City Officials when they review the Council File. See a sample CIS ..
Deficiencies found during Audit of City's Disaster Preparedness July Controller Laura Chick's 188 page Report recommends many changes . City Controller Laura Chick has found that the City lacks key components in its emergency and disaster preparedness. “The City of Los Angeles certainly has suffered from its share of natural disasters, such as earthquakes, fires and flash floods. Unfortunately, since 2001, we also know that terrorist attacks are now additional potential man-made disasters. It is only a matter of time before we face the next large-scale emergency and we must be better prepared than we are now,” said Chick, who released an audit of the City's emergency planning efforts and disaster preparedness. “This audit was conducted to ask and answer the question: Is the City of Los Angeles well-prepared for a major emergency? How can we say the City is well-prepared when it doesn't even have an overarching strategy that coordinates all the necessary pieces for a disaster recovery plan? How can we say the City is prepared when there is no follow-through to correct problems that are identified during training exercises?” said Chick. EDITOR'S NOTE: For your convenience the Executive Summary and Recommendations are included.
Groups Meet with LAPD Over Police Shooting of Muslim Man July On Wednesday, July 16, a group of Southern California Muslim leaders met with LAPD officials to discuss concerns about the investigation of the fatal shooting by a police officer of a California Muslim man in March. The Greater Los Angeles Area chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-LA) requested the meeting to seek answers and raise concerns about some circumstances in the case, where a 21-year-old highly functioning autistic man was shot multiple times and killed by an LAPD officer. The family was not informed of his death for 21 days.
Missing Persons Unit begins Parnership with KAZA-TV, Channel 54 July

from LAPD - The LAPD's Missing Persons Unit (MPU) handles nearly 3,500 adult missing person investigations annually.  When combined with the number of juvenile missing person reports that are handled at the Divisional level, the City of LA leads the nation in missing person investigations.  The MPU consists of four D-1s (1-per Bureau) and two D-2s who provide oversight and assist with the massive volume of reports. Although the MPU experiences an annual clearance rate between 90% and 95%, some investigations involve foul play.  Recently, over a four week period, two missing person investigations have evolved into homicide investigations.  Fortunately, due to the meticulously detailed investigations conducted by the MPU detectives, a quality investigative report was provided to Robbery Homicide Division (RHD) for a follow-up that resulted in the timely arrest of both suspects by RHD.
Target and LAPD Partner to Launch New Crime Fighting Capabilities July The LAPD and Target have announced the formation of unique public-private partnership to foster safe families and communities in Southern California. The first step will be developing and deploying an automated Citywide Crime and Resources Dashboard. Because every second matters, this technology will make our community even safer by detecting and analyzing crime and emergencies as they happen. LAPD Regional Crime Center analysts will use the Dashboard to monitor the overall “health” of the City relative to actual deployment, evolving emergencies, calls for service, suspicious activity reports, reporting crime, clearance rates and more.
Misuse of trash-fee funds breaks no laws, only promises July EDITOR'S NOTE - Originally a LA Daily News EDITORIAL - (You can also download the Controller's Letter and Report). ."From a legal standpoint," says City Controller Laura Chick about the $137 million the city has raised through hiking trash fees, "we believe the funds have been used appropriately." From a moral standpoint, an ethical standpoint, an honesty standpoint, or a good-government standpoint - well, that's a different story. It took two years but Chick has broken down the math to measure the truthfulness of the promise to raise trash fees "to hire 1,000 new cops at the Los Angeles Police Department." It wasn't easy. Getting accurate numbers out of the Mayor's Office proved to be a nine-month accounting ordeal. NOTE: See her full report inside, too.
I tried, but failed, to bring ethics to City Hall July by Bill Boyarsky - After five years on L.A.'s Ethics Commission, he leaves humbled, frustrated and angry - Five years ago, when I joined the Los Angeles City Ethics Commission, I was new to government, a bit wide-eyed about what I'd be able to get done and eager to begin shepherding big changes through the system. In particular, I hoped to help clean up a political system that I had come to see as dominated by money. By last month, however, when my term expired, I had learned my lesson. I left City Hall frustrated, irritated and saddened -- and most of all, humbled by a culture impervious to change. "Free at last," I said when my colleagues asked me if I had some final words at my last meeting June 10.
Miles to go for L.A. justice July by Joe Domanick - Policing is improved; now let's focus on the root causes of crime - Over the last few decades, it's been easy to blame the leadership of the Los Angeles Police Department, the L.A. County Sheriff's Department and the district attorney's office for the catastrophic failures of L.A.'s criminal justice system. These failures, as most Angelenos know, have led to a dangerously overcrowded, racially explosive county jail system; a violent gang problem that continues unabated after 10,000 deaths over 25 years, and generation after generation of young black and brown men ceaselessly shuttled off to state prisons at a rate of more than 22,000 a year -- as many as 70% of whom, once released, will recycle back within three years.
LAFD Helicopter Air Show This Saturday in Los Angeles July by Brian Humphrey, LAFD Spokesman . We welcome you to join members of the Los Angeles Fire Dept and their families at the nation's premier (and yes, free!) public safety helicopter air show from 9 AM to 4 PM on Saturday, July 12, 2008 in Los Angeles. The 'American Heroes Air Show' is a family event at the Hansen Dam Recreation and Sports Complex in the northeast San Fernando Valley. And yes, you heard it right - admission is FREE! Guests of all ages will get an up-close look at helicopters from local, regional, state and federal public safety and military units with static displays, flight demo's and mission briefings. FREE FAMILY FUN!
Public Discussion on the 2008 NC Elections July Where Do We Go From Here? A Public Discussion On The 2008 Neighborhood Council Elections - Interim City Clerk, Karen E. Kalfayan, and DONE General Manager, BongHwan (BH) Kim, want to hear from those that participated in the June Neighborhood Council elections. Do you have recommendations that will improve the election procedures and outreach strategies for 2010? If so, join us as we discuss the June 2008 Neighborhood Council elections. The public discussion will be held: Thursday, July 17, 2008 - 6:00 p.m. - City Hall, Board of Public Works Meeting Room - PLEASE PARTICIPATE !!!
American Heroes Air Show - CERT help needed! July CERT is requested to set up a cooling station and first-aid station at the show this Saturday, July 12, at Hansen Dam along with the CERT information booth. We will need team members to staff both, approximately 24 for the day. The hours of operation will be 8:30-4:00p.m. A popup, table, chairs, and information for the CERT booth will be provided. As for the cooling station, we will have a table, mister with hose, fans, connections for water and electricity, 3 ice chests, 5 gallon water container, and medical supplies as needed. They will provide water and ice as needed. It is being held at the Hansen Dam Recreation & Sports Complex, located in the north/central section of the San Fernando Valley at 11480 Foothill Blvd., Lake View Terrace (Osborne exit, 210 Freeway).
Race, rivalries and turf - OPINION July by Dan Milchovich - It's not the gangs, it's the cops.  L.A.'s law enforcement agencies should stop the playground antics.  Reading Charlie Beck's response to Sheriff Lee Baca's Op-Ed article, I had to wonder why an issue has to have two sides. Why does everything have to be subject to an opinion or a position? Law enforcement people are relatively consistent black-and-white thinkers. Right or wrong, guilty or not guilty, shoot or don't shoot. The reasoning is practical, efficient and, most important, it greatly simplifies the startling complexity of street policing, thus increasing the chances of staying alive. But when it comes to making decisions in the law enforcement executive office, basic wiring tends to transfer voltage to the silly side. Add a dose of testosterone, a couple of pounds of ego, a dollop of bureaucracy, a touch of data, the aura of rock-star leadership and a whole lot of territorialism, and you get the Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. Drop a common issue between them and watch the wool fly while everyone else in the business of law enforcement rolls their eyes and awaits the fallout.
Results of DNA Study - good for burglary cases July A Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) study found that DNA technology increased the likelihood of solving property crimes. The LAPD released the results of a 20-month study, which was funded by the National Institute of Justice.  The results showed that in 45 percent of burglary cases, where DNA was collected and a profile developed, a suspect was identified.  The LAPD study focused on residential and commercial burglaries in the San Fernando Valley and was conducted between February 2006 and October 2007.  Print experts and photographers from LAPD's Scientific Investigation Division (SID), officers and detectives at each crime scene were responsible for collecting evidence for these cases and were provided with additional training.
Mid Year Status on Part I Crime and Gang Crime July

Crime decreases in all but one category - homicide - July 02, 2008 . Los Angeles:   Today Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa joined Los Angeles Police Chief William Bratton at a Hollenbeck Area Community Center to announce a Mid-Year status on crime in the City of Los Angeles. "The declining rate of both Part I Crime and Gang Related Crime shows great promise for the remainder of 2008,"Chief Bratton said.  "To achieve these types of results you need an active community, supportive city leadership, partnerships with City, State and Federal officials, and a dedicated and committed Police Department." For the first six-months of 2008 Part I crime showed decreases in all but one category.  As of this morning Homicides increased by 3.19%; Rape decreased 11.3%; Robbery decreased 8.6%; Aggravated Assaults dropped 5.7%; Burglary dipped 5.0%; Car Burglary dropped 6.9%; Personal and other Theft decreased 6.1%; and Auto Theft dropped 8.2%.
New Cellphone Laws - in effect July 1, 2008 July CHP answers questions about the new cellphone laws - here's information that drivers need to know:
What if I need to use my cellphone in an emergency but don't have a hands-free device?
The law allows a driver to use a wireless telephone to make emergency calls to a law enforcement agency, a medical provider, a fire department or other emergency services agency.
What are the fines if I'm convicted of violating the law?
The base fine for the first offense is $20, and it's $50 for subsequent convictions. But with the addition of penalty assessments, the total amount can be more than triple the base fine. (NOTE: see many more rules regulations and much more info inside)
'Where are you from?' - The lethal gang challenge June by Charlie Beck - The lethal gang challenge issued on L.A.'s streets suggests most of the city's violence is not about race. 'WHERE ARE YOU FROM?" is the last question many young men in LA hear. It's not a question about geography but about gang affiliation, and it is asked in the moment before a shooting. I've been around after an awful lot of these shootings, and I must've heard the phrase at least a thousand times, reported by those who have been lucky enough to escape death. Thousands more have not escaped. It's very hard to understand what motivates street-level gang violence. I've been dealing with gangs for three decades, and I still have plenty of questions. But I think those all-too-frequently-used words -- "Where are you from?" -- go a long way toward explaining the vast majority of the cases we deal with. And here's what's most important about them at the moment: They're about gang status, not race.
In LA, Race Kills -- by Sheriff Lee Baca June Black-Latino tensions, not gangs, are at the heart of the county's violence, Sheriff Baca says. Conversations about race are fraught with emotion, confusion and controversy. But that doesn't mean we should avoid or sidestep the issue. As a Latino raised in East Los Angeles, and as the elected sheriff of Los Angeles County for the last decade, I have seen many sides of the race issue. I have lived it, in fact.. So let me be very clear about one thing: We have a serious interracial violence problem in this county involving blacks and Latinos.
Some people deny it. They say that race is not a factor in L.A.'s gang crisis; the problem, they say, is not one of blacks versus Latinos and Latinos versus blacks but merely one of gang members killing other gang members (and yes, they acknowledge, sometimes the gangs are race-based). EDITOR'S NOTE:  Open Letter to the community which was also available as an article in the LA Times.
Historic Protection for Griffith Park? June Here's How You Can Help . Griffith Park's nomination for Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument status is gaining friends. The Federation of Canyon and Hillside Associations, an umbrella organization of 36 residential associations ranging from Glassell Park to Pacific Palisades has thrown its support behind the initiative. The Los Feliz Improvement Association, the city's oldest residential association and largest in the Griffith Park area, has voted unanimously to do the same. Starting next week, other community groups and associations including neighborhood councils, will consider endorsing the Griffith J. Griffith Family Trust's application.
Earthquake Preparedness . . its EVERYONE's business June Caltech Seminar Planned in Historic Northeast Los Angeles • Watch for updates, info  • sponsored by Montecito Heights Improvement Association and LACP  The terrible earthquake devastation we recently saw in China could easily happen here in the Los Angeles region, and all of us need to become as prepared as possible .. not "in case" but because we WILL have "the BIG one" .. and it could come at any time. At least that's the opinion of all the experts. The issue is urgent.  A number of residents from the Montecito Heights Improvement Association, along with LA Community Policing, have asked the knowledgeable folks from Caltech University in Pasadena to help us put on a seminar on the threat .. and what can be done about it.
New LA Cell Phone Laws - start July 1st June From: Department of Transportation .In June, the Los Angeles Department of Transportation and the "Watch the Road" program has begun to launch a public awareness campaign alerting Angelinos to California's two new cellular phone use laws. The laws, which take effect July 1, 2008, will force drivers to use hands-free mobile devices and prohibit driver's under 18 from using cell phones at all. The Department is partnering with the Los Angeles Police Department to raise public awareness about the new laws. See the DOT web site inside ..
Chick Finds Vast Improvement at LA Fire Department May Reports LAFD is well on the way to improving it's culture - Over two years since she found incidents of harassment, hazing and discrimination at the Fire Department, City Controller Laura Chick reports that the situation has vastly improved. "While there is still room for improvement, the Fire Department has come a long way in reforming and attempting to change its culture,” said Chick. "
“Real change must come from the top down, and in the last year-and-a-half, Chief Douglas Barry has taken bold action to put the Department on a new track." . EDITOR'S NOTE: For your convenience the Executive Summary is included.
The Great Southern California ShakeOut May Earthquake Preparedness - IMPORTANT !! - June 4th, at CalTech in Pasadena - You are invited to join elected officials, business leaders, emergency managers and others for the kickoff press conference for "The Great Southern California ShakeOut" on June 4th from 10 a.m. to noon at Caltech. "ShakeOut" is an unprecedented week of events this November that will inspire Southern Californians to get ready for big earthquakes and keep our disasters from becoming catastrophes. "ShakeOut" will involve residents, businesses, communities, and schools in the largest-ever emergency response exercise and public drill, where millions of Southern Californians practice what to do during and after major earthquake.  The June 4th KickOff event launches a public education campaign and a series of regional activities to build participation in the "ShakeOut." .
Mayor Unleashes the Tiger Team IV in Hollywood May Equipped with new license plate recognition camera technology in each vehicle, the Tiger Team IV will scan license plates, locate stolen vehicles, identify amber alerts and find scofflaws, all while continuing to eliminate traffic congestion along Sunset Boulevard by ticketing, towing and removing illegally parked vehicles from the street during rush hour. The anti-gridlock traffic enforcement team will patrol the streets of Hollywood, and will cite and tow motorists who illegally park their vehicles on the street.
Gov. Schwarzenegger Proposes Responsible Budget May Creative Solutions in Face of Worse Deficit - Budget Fixes Broken System, Fully Funds Education Without Raising Taxes . Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has submitted his revised 2008-09 state budget plan to the legislature. It includes a combination of some necessary cuts, some new revenues and some creative solutions to address California's $17.2 billion budget problem. It fully funds education under Proposition 98, does not raise taxes and establishes a rainy day fund to address California's chronic budget problem.
Keeping LA's Park Rangers - an uphill battle May Regarding the status of the Mayor's 50% cut to the Park Rangers -- WE WON!  All Park Ranger position authorities including the Chief and $1.8 million was restored to the Recreation and Parks budget by the Budget and Finance Committee and the Mayor. Some of the maintenance cuts to Rec and Parks were also restored. Yet - Not to be a buzz-killer, but indications are that next year's budget will be worse than this years'. We don't want to go through all of this again in 2009. What actions should you take? Find out here ..
LAPD Cracking Down on Buckling Up May Click It or Ticket Aims to Boost Seat Belt Use . The LAPD will be aggressively enforcing the state's occupant protection laws as part of California's 2008 Click It or Ticket mobilization, taking place May 12-June 1, 2008. The campaign relies on heavy enforcement and public education as a means to help California achieve the highest seat belt use rate in the nation.  California currently has the nation's fourth highest seat belt use rate at 94.6 percent. California has a primary seat belt law which requires that everyone in the car wears a seat belt at all times.  If stopped and found to be in violation, law enforcement will issue citations without warning.  Tickets for first seat belt violations range from $80 to $91 for adults and $330 to $401 for children under age 16, depending on the county. 
LAPD Police Commission - Community Meeting May The LAPD Police Commission invites you to a Community Meeting on Tuesday, May 27 at 6:30pm at the Hollenbeck Middle School Auditorium. Their Special Guest will be Council Member José Huizar. All community members are invited to attend and share their
opinions, questions, concerns and comments with the LAPD Police Commissioners. These out-in-the-community meetings, held several times a year, represent the Police Commission's attempt to make themselves available to the general pubic.
New data available on California earthquakes May by Senator Barbara Boxer . The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is America's earthquake science agency, charged with providing reliable information about where and when earthquakes may occur.  The USGS has issued a new report that should be of interest to Californians.  The report relates the prediction that California has more than a 99 percent chance of having a magnitude 6.7 or larger earthquake within the next 30 years.  Importantly, it also provides clues as to regions more likely to experience a major quake.
Pictures of Your Neighborhood Sex Criminal Apr New Web Site . Enter your address and a map will pop up with your home as a small icon of a house. There will be red, blue and green dots surrounding your entire neighborhood. When you click on these dots a picture of a criminal will appear with his or her home address and the description of the crime he or she has committed.  Perhaps best of all, you can show your children these pictures (and see how close these people live to your home or school). This site was developed by John Walsh from Americas Most Wanted. This is another tool we can use to help us keep our kids safe.
Time to revisit Special Order 40? - PRO - Dennis Zine Apr by Dennis P. Zine, Los Angeles City Councilman . Street gangs have one primary purpose: to intimidate communities through criminal activities. These thugs terrorize their own neighborhoods and other communities without the slightest regard for human life or a bare minimum of human decency. A sizable portion of gang membership consists of criminals who are in this country illegally. Major efforts (and millions of dollars) have been spent on obtaining and enforcing injunctions to keep gang members away from certain areas and to stop gang members from associating with each other. Common sense suggests that another effective way to reduce gang violence is to find and deport gang members who are in this country illegally. But in the city of Los Angeles, common sense has taken a back seat to a misinterpretation and restrictive implementation of a policy known as LAPD Special Order 40.
Time to revisit Special Order 40? - CON - Michel Moore Apr by Michel R. Moore, LAPD Deputy Chief . The core values of the LAPD stress, in part, the importance of treating all people with respect and dignity. Integral to our mission is to protect victims from criminals who prey upon the weak or terrorize communities. The immigration status of a crime victim or witness is of no concern to the department, nor should it be. However, the immigration status of a criminal - gang member or otherwise - suspected of residing in this country illegally is a concern. Over the past year, 10 full-time Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have worked closely with LAPD gang officers and detectives to identify active adult gang members who are committing crimes in the San Fernando Valley. The cooperation between the department and ICE has resulted in more than 100 criminals in the San Fernando Valley being arrested by ICE for various immigration violations.
Two Suspects Arrested for Scams that Target Elderly Victims Apr by Capt. Blake Chow . Two suspects have been arrested in an investigation by Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Hollenbeck detectives of a group of South and Central American suspects who attempt to scam elderly Hispanic victims. By analyzing recent crime reports dealing with theft by trickery and similar operations, detectives were able to identify the suspects' pattern of operations.
New Officer In Charge of LAPD's blog Apr I would like to introduce myself to you.  I am Lieutenant Rick Banks, and as of April 2008, I am the new Lieutenant in charge of the blog.  That is to say, I manage the blog by approving the postings and reading all of your comments and evaluating which ones will be published.  Once published, your comment is added to the discussion board for everyone to read.
LAPD and Dept Water and Power Alert Apr by S.L.O. Ronald Carter -. BE AWARE !  No one is allowed into your home.- It is imperative that no one is allowed into your home, unless you personally scheduled the workers or have first verified that they are properly identified as who they say they are. All DWP Personnel carry Identification and are glad and happy to answer your questions. If not, then call "911".
LA Mayor's Budget for 2008 - 2009 Apr Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa . "L.A. is poised to emerge as the great global city of the 21st Century, but our imaginations will be tested in this tough budget year." EDITOR'S NOTE: A recap of department cuts / additions can be found on page 6 of the first download we've provided. The link is also the web page where you may see the entire budget and post your comments or thoughts.
Grand Opening of LAFD Air Operations at Van Nuys Airport Apr Dear Friend of the LAFD: The men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department warmly welcome you to join civic and community leaders, including Fire Chief Douglas Barry, at the public dedication and grand opening of the City's newest municipal aviation facility. We strongly encourage you to view a flyer with important information for this event, and are pleased to provide an interactive map with driving directions to a special parking site for all attendees, from which free shuttle service will be provided:
LANI 6th Annual Communiry Forum - FREE!! Apr Los Angeles Neighborhood Initiative Sixth Annual Community Forum - FREE !
- Thursday • May 15, 2008 • 8 am - 2:30 pm - Once again we’re bringing the community together for the LANI (Los Angeles Neighborhood Initiative Sixth Annual Community Forum).
Drawing on Los Angeles Neighborhood Initiative's unparalleled track record of revitalizing diverse areas, this exciting event gathers and trains neighborhood leaders and community stakeholders, providing a critical opportunity for dialogue and information sharing. USC Davidson Conference Center, 3415 S. Figueroa St., LA, CA 90089 - Register for FREE !
LAPD Releases SWAT Team Analysis Apr from LAPD . Chief William J. Bratton of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) presented the Police Commission and general public with an Executive Summary  (available below) of a Board of Inquiry analysis into the Department's Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team operations, a process that began in July 2005. Board of Inquiry members consisted of a variety of distinguished individuals with legal and law enforcement backgrounds. Read the Executive Summary here ...
Asian American Officer is Promoted to Deputy Chief Apr Deputy Chief Terry S. Hara - West Bureau .Asian and Pacific Islander American community leaders, friends, family and colleagues joined Chief William J. Bratton and Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa on the Los Angeles Police Academy Field yesterday morning as the Department's highest-ranking Asian American police officer, Terry S. Hara, was officially promoted to Deputy Chief.  Deputy Chief Hara is the first ever Asian Pacific Islander American in the history of the Department to achieve the rank of Deputy Chief, and will serve as Commanding Officer of Operation West Bureau.
Gang Wars - the BIG turf fight's among our elected officials Apr by Bill Murray .There's a terrible gang war going on these days in Los Angeles. But we're not talking about what's happening on the street. The BIG battle's for turf of a different kind .. for control of LAs official anti-gang efforts .. and it's being waged at City Hall. Elected politicians and local activists are lining up behind two gangs .. I mean camps .. one led by Laura Chick, the City Controller, who's charged with auditing LA's spending, and the other by Councilman Tony Cardenas, who Chairs a committee with anti-gang oversight.
Revised Crowd Control Strategies for May Day Apr Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Chief William J. Bratton announced the Department's strategy for crowd management at the upcoming immigration rights demonstration on May 1, 2008, and changes to selection process for Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT). Training Group Commanding Officer Sandy Jo MacArthur provided a comprehensive review of the Department's ongoing efforts to improve crowd management/control policies and procedures. Since the previous May Day event on May 1, 2007, the LAPD has made a thorough examination of the 2007 May Day event, including pre-event planning and training.
SWAT: The Next Level - selecting SWAT officers Apr Changes will toughen the elite team . Changes to how the Los Angeles Police Department selects officers for its SWAT training program have prompted angry letters, disgruntled anonymous quotes in the newspaper and even a claim of unfair labor practices  from the police officers union. These critics charge that the department has lowered the standards for entry into the Special Weapons and Tactics Team. What is missing in all that rhetoric are the facts.
Chick Audit of LAPD HQ Makes 32 Recommendations Apr Controller Laura Chick - Finds ways to save public dollars . EDITOR'S NOTE: The new downtown LAPD headquarters building is $150 million over projections - and will cost to more than $450 million . In a report containing 32 recommendations for improvement, City Controller Laura Chick released her audit of the construction of the Los Angeles Police Headquarters saying, “It is time for us to be thinking outside of the box and adopting more flexibility and modern approaches which could cost us less in the long-run.”
Neighborhood Preparedness Ambassador Program Apr by the LAPD Community Policing Unit - Preparing our neighborhoods is no longer one person’s, one department’s, or even one city’s responsibility. It takes a united effort among government, businesses, schools, faith-based organizations, neighborhoods, neighborhood blocks and individual households. It is everyone’s responsibility to prepare themselves and then take initiative to engage others around them to be prepared, too! To foster this spirit of preparedness and readiness, the City of Los Angeles Emergency Operations Organization sponsors a three-part series, train-the-trainer program for neighborhood council representatives. This series offers participants an opportunity to get involved in the City’s emergency preparedness program.
LANI 6th Annual Communiry Forum Mar Los Angeles Neighborhood Initiative Sixth Annual Community Forum - FREE ! - Thursday • May 15, 2008 • 8 am - 2:30 pm . FREE !! . Once again we’re bringing the community together for the LANI (Los Angeles Neighborhood Initiative Sixth Annual Community Forum) !  Drawing on Los Angeles Neighborhood Initiative's unparalleled track record of revitalizing diverse areas, this exciting event gathers and trains neighborhood leaders and community stakeholders, providing a critical opportunity for dialogue and information sharing. USC Davidson Conference Center, 3415 S. Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90089 - Register for FREE !
CERT Volunteers Needed for LAFD Funeral Events Mar by Linda Underwood . EDITOR'S NOTE: Run by the LA Fire Department, at LACP we LOVE the CERT program! It's a terrific way the community can participate in public safety ... and almost anyone can play a part! We recently received the following announcement from CERT-LA and the Los Angeles Fire Department: Funeral arrangements are being made for fallen Firefighter Brent Lovrien. At this time CERT volunteers are needed to assist in the set up, support, Rehab and logistics for three upcoming funeral events.
One Firefighter Dies and One Injured in Explosion Mar in Playa Del Rey . It is with great sadness that the men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department share word of one, City of Los Angeles Firefighter dying today in the line of duty. Firefighters were summoned to investigate smoke in the 8800 block of South Sepulveda Boulevard in the Westchester area of Los Angeles - not far from Los Angeles International Airport.
LAPD Archive Photos - Preserving the Legacy Mar The Los Angeles Police Department has embarked on an ambitious plan to catalog and preserve nearly one million photographic negatives accumulated during decades of police service in the city of Los Angeles. The images constitute a visual record dating primarily from the early 1920s to the late 1960s. Until now the images have remained largely forgotten and unexplored.
Report Identifies Ways to Increase Civilians at LAPD Mar Controller Laura Chick - Potential to Redeploy Over 400 Officers Back on the Streets . Calling Los Angeles “… one of the most underpoliced big cities in America,” Laura Chick issued a report identifying ways to increase civilian staffing of the LAPD and put more officers out fighting crime on our streets and in our neighborhoods.“We found over 500 positions that could potentially be filled by civilians, freeing up sworn personnel to perform more traditional policing functions. The last chapter of the report lays out a clear plan, implemented over a three year period that would put these already trained, experienced veteran police officers, back out in neighborhoods where we need them,” said Chick at a news conference with LAPD Chief Bill Bratton. Read the Executive Report here.
Helicopters Become Black and Whites in the Sky Mar " .. Only the Vehicle Has Changed ” . The Los Angeles Police Department's (LAPD) Air Support Division (ASD) recently unveiled two police helicopters with a new black and white color scheme. The new design represents an effort to develop a closer bond with uniformed police officers on the ground and to underscore the fact that ASD pilots and aircraft are in the air 24/7 as backup. The ASD motto is: “The Mission is the Same Only the Vehicle Has Changed.”
LAPD E-policing - bringing community policing to the Internet Mar Get up-to-date City wide crime maps, and sign up for e-policing . E-policing is a new innovative LAPD tool that cross-references the address you enter to the Senior Lead Officer (SLO) who patrols your neighborhood. After registering, you will receive periodic e-mails from your SLO regarding safety tips and crime alerts. Being aware, alert and in sync with safety tips and crime alerts in your neighborhood is key safety and success for the whole community! The website is updated every 24 hours and information can be sent out to a wide area or as little as one block, providing detailed information on crime patterns and things that affect your neighborhood.
Gun Microstamping Legislation Gains Local Support Mar Los Angeles – Representative Xavier Becerra (CA-31), Assistant to the Speaker of the House, the author of the National Crime Gun Identification Act of 2008 (H.R. 5266) and a longtime proponent of microstamping, will host a press conference to explain how new technology can help investigators match a single cartridge recovered at a crime scene to the gun – and the criminal that fired it. Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Police Chief William Bratton, Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca, Los Angeles City Council President Eric Garcetti, Los Angeles City Councilwoman Jan Perry, and Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley will all unveil their support.
Official Police Garage B-roll Now Available Mar LAPD Police Commission - Los Angeles – In order to provide the public with a clear and comprehensive understanding of the services provided by the Official Police Garage facilities throughout the City of Los Angeles, b-roll footage has been filmed and is now available. The footage covers interior and exterior shots of Official Police Garage facilities, functions occurring within the facilities including Inspection Hold Areas, the process of a vehicle being towed for a parking violation, the use of heavy duty tow trucks, and the use of Official Police Garage tow trucks at a collision scene. A complete list of the images is attached.
Activism or Cowardice? Mar by LAPD Senior Lead Officer Deon Joseph . At a recent public hearing, an activist group, who will remain nameless as always, entered the hearing and began their usual chants and rhetorical pot shots against the Los Angeles Police Department and myself.  This is nothing new.  Most people are immune to their tactics, which are almost comical, until we see the negative results of their activities. Yet what was different than before, was the fact that these activist took it upon themselves to attack a fallen officer, who had valiantly given up his life trying to save lives, along with his injured partner.  This officer is not able to defend himself.  As we all know, we recently lost not only a great officer, but also a wonderful human being.  On duty and off duty, SWAT Officer Randy Simmons dedicated his life to protecting the community and mentoring to children.
Speech Given to LAPD Graduation Class Mar by Deputy Chief Gary Brennan . 34 Years ago, during February 1974, I graduated from the Los Angeles Police Academy (Class of 9/73) ... These Police Academy grounds are truly special. Indeed, these are hallowed grounds. Every Los Angeles Police Officer Since 1931 has graduated here at this Academy. Today the ranks of our graduates are enhanced by the presence of officers from the LA Airports, LA General Services and LA Harbor Police Departments. To you family, friends and loved ones of these graduating recruits…a very special welcome to this Academy on this most special day in the lives of the officer of classes 8/07 and 9/07. It is to these recruit officers that I wish to speak. As I stand here at the end of my career and you at the beginning of yours, I want to congratulate and encourage you in your commitment to law enforcement, the LAPD and our allied agencies. You are embarking on a journey of work few others have the chance, or even the ability to take. And my hope for you is that 35 years from now, you will know as much pride, satisfaction and fulfillment in your lives in law enforcement as I've known in mine with the LAPD.
Police Academy for Community Members - FREE ! Mar Police Academy for Community Members - free 11 week course offered, Thursday nights  . The new Community Police Academy has been scheduled to begin on Thursday, March 27th, and is held every Thursday for 11 weeks from 6pm to 9pm. The course is designed to provide the community members with an inside look at the LAPD and various facets of law enforcement. The academy is held at the Elysian Park Academy (1880 North Academy Drive, CA 90012-1001) every Thursday from 6pm to 9pm. There is no physical activity involved other that walking to the classrooms and there is no charge. During the eleven week academy students will be introduced to police operations, participate in firearms safety demonstrations, tour Air Support Division (Helicopter Cops) and communications divisions.
City Approves LAPD Signing Bonus of up to $10,000 Feb from the LAPD - With the signature of the Mayor, the LAPD now offers a signing bonus of up to $10,000 for qualified men and women to join the Los Angeles Police Department. Paid for in part by a $1 million donation from Mercury Insurance, the Signing Bonus is the most recent action in the Mayor's push to put 1,000 new police officers on the streets of Los Angeles by the year 2010.  The LAPD Signing Bonus offers $5,000 to new recruits and $10,000 to returning LAPD officers and current police officers from other jurisdictions who join the Department.
LA City - Fiscal Year 2008-09 Budget Deliberations Feb The City's Budget and Finance Committee will be holding public hearings to consider comments and recommendations from Angelenos concerning implementation of the budget for the upcoming fiscal year. This is also a reminder to complete the Mayor's Budget Survey. This year's survey includes questions about the key issues and decisions that the Mayor and City Council will have to make to balance a budget in times of great financial challenges. The Mayor is requesting your feedback on key City services that impact our communities and on how to safeguard and/or attain new revenue for essential services.
Rep. Becerra and Sen. Kennedy Introduce Gun Microstamping Legislation Feb EDITOR'S NOTE: We at LACP have actively supported the concept of Gun Microstamping (and Ammunition Microstamping) for some time, and appreciate the efforts of Congressman Becerra and Senator Kennedy.  We feel this legislation could have a significant impact in helping to solve the many serious crimes involving firearms. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Close to 40 percent of all homicides nationwide go unsolved each year. To help improve this gravely disappointing statistic, Representative Xavier Becerra (CA-31), Assistant to the Speaker of the House, today introduced the National Crime Gun Identification Act of 2008. Senator Edward Kennedy (MA) introduced an identical companion bill in the Senate. Microstamping is the next generation in ballistics technology that gives police more precise investigative leads to pursue criminals.
LAPD Helicopters Used as Targets for Lasers Feb from the LAPD - At a news conference held atop the Air Support Division's heliport, Captain Mike Williams, Commanding Officer of Air Support Division, accompanied by Deputy Chief Richard Roupoli, Commanding Officer of Special Operations Bureau, stated to the media the growing problem of people pointing lasers inside the cockpits of LAPD helicopters and commercial airliners. “This is a problem that affects LAPD helicopters and commercial aviation.  A laser beam shot into a cockpit is illegal, causes temporary blindness to the air crew, causing disorientation and can lead to a possible crash,” said Captain Williams.
Laura Chick Audits LA's Anti-Gang Efforts Feb Los Angeles -- Calling it, “A time for action…now,” City Controller Laura Chick released her wide ranging and highly anticipated Blueprint on ending gang violence. “During the last two decades, there have been countless studies, reports, consultants, City Council ad-hoc committees, new programs and hundreds and hundreds of millions of dollars spent to stem the gang crisis. And what do we have to show for it? The recent in-depth Advancement Project study painted a grim picture, which my report echoes, of a disjointed maze of services that don't reach the intended “at risk” youth population,” said City Controller Chick.
View from a squad car Feb by Jack Dunphy . Putting video cameras in black-and-whites won't clear up a distorted picture of the LAPD. The federal consent decree mandating reform of the Los Angeles Police Department was supposed to expire in 2006, five years after the city negotiated it with the U.S. Justice Department following the Rampart scandal. But in May 2006, the federal judge overseeing it ruled that the department was still not complying with several of its provisions and ordered that the court-appointed monitor keep watch over the department until June 2009. According to the Police Protective League -- the police union -- the city has already spent more than $13 million for the monitor's fees and expenses and more than $30 million in complying with the decree's many provisions.
2008 LAPD Essay Contest Kicks off Feb Now in its fifth year, the LAPD Essay Contest is conducted through middle schools within the Los Angeles Unified School District and the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.  In 350 words or less, students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade are asked to answer: "If you were a Los Angeles Police Department officer for a day, what would you do that would have the greatest impact on the community?" The contest begins this Monday, February 25, 2008, and is open for four weeks. The entry deadline is Friday, March 21, 2008. Submissions are read by volunteer judges that consist of police officers and community members.  Essays are judged on topic significance, creativity, content, and writing style.
LAPD Mourns Loss of Veteran SWAT Officer Feb from the LAPD (please see UPDATES, too) . February 07, 2008 . Shortly, after 9:00 last night, the Los Angeles Police Department's Communications Division received a 911 call from a home in West Valley in the 19000 block of Welby Way.  The caller indicated he had killed 3 of his family members.  West Valley Patrol Units responded to conduct an investigation. The suspect refused to leave the home and LAPD SWAT was called to the scene. Around 12:30 this morning, SWAT made entry into the home and an exchange of gunfire between the officers and the suspect occurred.  Two veteran SWAT officers were shot, removed from the home and rushed to Northridge Medical Center.  The incident at the home in West Valley is still ongoing, and for that reason there will be no more tactical information released at this time. Despite the efforts of the Los Angeles Fire Department and hospital personnel, one of the officers passed away just after one o'clock this morning.  The other officer was seriously wounded but will survive. Due to overwhelming support for LAPD Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team Officers Randal Simmons and James Veenstra, trust funds have been established in both their names through the Los Angeles Police Federal Credit Union (LAPFC). Please see UPDATES and how to make a donation here, too.
CERT Help Needed - Presidential Primary Elections - Feb 5th Jan by Linda Underwood . The Los Angeles Fire Department has requested help from CERT graduates for the Presidential Primary Election on Tuesday, February 5, 2008.  The County Clerk is expecting a large voter turnout for this election. This is a CERT event, not a call-out. Seventeen of the polling places will be at fire stations.  The purpose of the CERT volunteers will be to assist with parking, provide direction to the community, and augment fire station security.
LAPD Reports - Reduction in 2007 Gang Crime Jan Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa joined Los Angeles Police Chief William J. Bratton to announce significant gang violence reductions in 2007. “At the beginning of last year, I announce a new approach to gangs,” said Chief Bratton.  “The strategy consisted of several Gang Initiatives aimed to reducing violence and fear.”  Working together with community members, our city's political leadership, and State and Federal agencies, we have begun to turn the trend and reduce gang crime and the fear associated with it.
Back to School Safety - from the LAPD Jan Now that the holidays are over, it is time for children to return to school and for classes to resume.  Each year in the City of Los Angeles nearly 200 children are killed or injured while being picked up or dropped off from school. In 2006 alone, 192 children citywide were injured while arriving at or departing from school.  Fifty-three children were injured in the San Fernando Valley alone. This is a good time to remind drivers and parents that it is imperative that they drive responsibly.  Here are a few tips to ensure the safety of our kids.
LAPD's Message From The Chief of Police Jan by Chief Bratton - Jan, 2008..As we begin a new year, I not only feel good about where we are going, but where we have been.  The past year was a very good one for the Los Angeles Police Department.  We continued our efforts to re-establish the LAPD as the leading law enforcement agency in the nation, raising the bar of professional standards for ourselves and for our colleagues in law enforcement.  We delivered declines in crime for the residents of the City of Los Angeles for the sixth year in a row, furthering a history-making success streak that is making local, national and international headlines.
Monthly Crime Prevention Tips Jan Ten Things Adults Can Do To Stop Violence . Set up a Neighborhood Watch or a community patrol, working with police. Make sure your streets and homes are well lighted. Make sure that all the youth in the neighborhood have positive ways to spend their spare time, through organized recreation, tutoring programs, part-time work, and volunteer opportunities. Build a partnership with police, focus on solving problems instead of reacting to crises. Make it possible for neighbors to report suspicious activity or crimes without fear of retaliation. Take advantage of "safety in numbers" to hold rallies, marches, and other group activities to show you're determined to drive out crime and drugs. Clean up the neighborhood! ... and much more ....
LA Crime Down for Sixth Consecutive Year in 2007 Jan from the LAPD - January 2, 2008 . Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Police Chief William Bratton announced that homicides fell to a 37-year low, 392 total, with preliminary statistics for 2007 showing the City's Part I crime rate dropped for a sixth straight year. In 2007, the per capita crime rate for Part I crime remained below the 1956 level. During that year the population of Los Angeles was 2.3 million. Per capita crime was 385 per 10,000 people. In 2007 the estimated population is 4.2 million with a per capita crime rate of 290 per 10,000, a significant decrease from 1956. "My fellow Police Commissioners and I want to commend the men and women of the LAPD for this significant crime reduction effort," stated Police Commission President Anthony Pacheco. "This is a testament to the fine leadership of Chief of Police William J. Bratton and his leadership team. Los Angeles is a safer city due to these fine efforts."