For Immediate Release

Contact:
Eric Rose (805) 624-0572 or
Ryan Oliver (310) 854-8272

Los Angeles Police Protective League President Paul M. Weber’s statement in response to Mayor Villaraigo’s proposal to cut Los Angeles’ public safety budget:

“Mayor Villaraigosa’s proposal to reduce by one hour the amount each LAPD officer works per week is the equivalent of cutting 250 experienced officers from our city,” Los Angeles Police Protective League President Paul M. Weber said. “We are disappointed that the mayor has fallen back on his promise to make public safety a top priority with his administration.”

“With patrol resources already stretched across Los Angeles, these cuts mean longer response times for critical calls and fewer resources to carry out the proactive police work that has contributed to a decline in crime rates over the last decade,” Weber said.

“While we understand the need for the city to look for ways to save money in the current economy, the Los Angeles Police Protective League does not believe that cutting the LAPD budget and jeopardizing public safety is a solution,” Weber said. “The need to capture criminals and protect the residents of this city continues in good economic times and bad.”

“Because crime often increases during a recession, we need our officers now more than ever. And in order for economic growth to return to Los Angeles, we need safe neighborhoods where people are willing to invest in homes and businesses.”

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