For Immediate Release
Contact:
Eric Rose (805) 624-0572 or
Paul Haney (626) 755-4759
LOS ANGELES, August 5, 2009 -- In response to news that Chief Bratton is stepping down as Los Angeles Police Chief, Paul M. Weber, President of the Los Angeles Police Protective League, has issued the following statement:
"Chief Bratton came to Los Angeles with the determination to drive down crime and restore the Department’s good relationship with the Los Angeles community. Under his leadership, the men and women of the LAPD have done just that, demonstrated by the current crime rates, which are lower than any time since the 1950s, and the Department’s high approval ratings in recent public polls."
"Coming from New York, Chief Bratton was a quick study, surrounding himself with knowledgeable people who helped him learn Los Angeles’ unique challenges. He brought COMPSTAT to Los Angeles, a technology to track and map crime patterns. Under his leadership, LAPD has become a recognized expert in innovative terrorism prevention and preparedness initiatives, developing partnerships and cooperative efforts with other law enforcement agencies. Most recently, Chief Bratton was instrumental in ending the federal oversight imposed under the Consent Decree."
"His outspoken demeanor and unmistakable Boston accent made him an instantly recognizable figure in the community and the media, and he successfully used his visibility to strengthen partnerships between LAPD and the residents it serves."
"Chief Bratton has served our City with honor and professionalism, and his shoes will be tough to fill. While we may not have agreed with the Chief on all of the issues, the LAPPL appreciates the working relationship it shared with Bratton. We wish him well in his future endeavors"
About the LAPPL Formed in 1923, the Los Angeles Police Protective League (LAPPL) represents the more than 9,800 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.
