Los Angeles, November 14, 2014 — In response to a review of the Los Angeles Police Department discipline system, Tyler Izen, President of the Los Angeles Police Protective League (LAPPL) issued the following statement:

“Focus group sessions held with more than 500 LAPD employees and 18 months of review found what the LAPPL has been saying for some time, the LAPD internal discipline system is broken. The LAPD’s own analysis had confirmed that officers believe that personnel investigations are unfair, punishments in the LAPD are often subjective and the Department overlooks misconduct by high-ranking officials.”

“The report confirms what the League has long held, the discipline process in the LAPD is influenced by public and media pressures and that nepotism infects the disciplinary process. Four of the six (66 percent) recommendations involve equity and consistency in disciplinary investigations, penalties, procedures and decisions. These are the same concerns that we have brought forth since shortly after Beck was appointed.”

“Additionally, while there has been talk of a ‘Penalty Guide’ coming back, it is important to note that the Penalty Guide was negotiated through a meet and confer with the LAPPL because it impacted working conditions, benefits and pay. Disciplinary procedures are a mandatory subject of bargaining. Therefore, the current Penalty Guide, which has been agreed upon by the Department, cannot just be dismissed. While the LAPPL has long used the Penalty Guide, it is interesting to note that the Department has chosen to deny its existence, until now.”

“However, nothing will change until safeguards have been put in writing. The League has proposed a comprehensive set of proposals to safeguard fairness in the process that the Department to date has ignored. The Board of Directors will continue to fight for our officer’s rights and for a fair and impartial process.”

Contact: Eric Rose (805) 624-0572.

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.