LAPD case study: CA must reform police forces, not incapacitate them

Political commentator Joel Fox writes about the risks of underfunding local police departments, specially highlighting the Los Angeles Police Department’s past drastic $150 million budget cut. Rather than endangering residents by reducing funding and discontinuing certain types of accident investigation, California’s police forces must be strengthened to serve their ultimate purpose of protecting local citizens, argues Fox.

Last week the Los Angeles Police Department laid out plans to deal with a smaller budget forced on the LAPD in part by a $150 million cut as a result of the police reform movement. The risks of changes in policing strategies will be measured against citizens’ safety. While it’s too early to judge the consequences, the concerns for safety are real. 

LAPD Chief Michael Moore announced cuts in air support, robbery homicide and gang and narcotics divisions. Additionally, desk hours at police stations would be reduced, manned only during weekday hours. The police will stop investigating automobile accidents with minor injuries involved and will require accident reports to be filed online. Perhaps, most significantly, the LAPD sworn officer core will be reduced from 10,110 to 9,752. Having 10,000 officers was a goal for the police and many past mayoral administrations.

The obvious question is will people feel safe? 

This article originally appeared in Fox & Hounds Daily. Read the whole thing here.

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