The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has temporarily disbanded its 77th Street Division gang enforcement unit following allegations that officers turned off their body cameras during traffic stops.
The move was announced Tuesday as the department’s civilian watchdog called for a review of all gang enforcement units citywide.
The investigation focuses on claims that officers failed to activate their body-worn cameras and did not document some interactions. Assistant Chief Scott Harrelson emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “We take this very, very seriously,” during a Police Commission meeting. The unit, once praised as one of the department’s “best” tools against gangs, will remain inactive while the inquiry continues.
According to the Los Angeles Times, about a dozen officers have been ordered to avoid public contact while on duty, and others have been reassigned. The issue mirrors a previous scandal involving “ghost stops” by a gang unit in the San Fernando Valley, where officers were accused of similar misconduct.
Commission President Rasha Gerges Shields expressed concerns about a potential culture problem within the department, noting that repeated violations could indicate deeper issues. The LAPD has faced criticism for its handling of body camera policies, with some arguing that more comprehensive audits are needed.
The LAPD’s body-worn video policy, established in 2015, requires officers to activate cameras during any public interaction. However, NBC Los Angeles reports that some officers deliberately concealed stops, raising questions about their actions.
As the investigation unfolds, the LAPD aims to address the root causes of the misconduct and ensure accountability within its ranks. The temporary disbandment of the unit is seen as a necessary step to restore public trust and uphold the integrity of the department.
Recent Comments