Los Angeles, March 1, 2015 — In response to the officer-involved shooting in Central Area today, Craig Lally, president of the Los Angeles Police Protective League released the following statement on behalf of the League:

“LAPD officers responded to a reported robbery on Skid Row this afternoon that resulted in the use of force and the subsequent death of the suspect. The incident occurred only hours ago and the investigation is in its very early stages. Testimony and facts are still being collected and assessed. Until that investigation concludes, the LAPPL urges everyone to reserve their judgment as there is much to learn about the incident. In fact, audio heard on a video recording during the incident clearly suggests that the officers felt they were in life-threatening danger.”

“LAPD officers are put directly in harm’s way every day as they face complex situations, unthinkable dangers and split-second decisions while protecting the residents of Los Angeles. However, no officer goes to work with the intent of using force, much less deadly force. Officers may be compelled to use force when there is an objectively reasonable certainty that there could be injury to themselves or someone else. As tragic as these situations are, law enforcement officers absolutely have the right to defend their life or the life of another.”

Contact: Burson-Marsteller at (213) 292-1003.

About the LAPPL: Formed in 1923, the Los Angeles Police Protective League (LAPPL) represents the more than 9,900 dedicated and professional sworn members of the Los Angeles Police Department. The LAPPL serves to advance the interests of LAPD officers through legislative and legal advocacy, political action and education. The LAPPL can be found on the Web at www.LAPD.com.