Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Beck announced late last week that he is stepping down early, ending an eight-year term and a career in the force of over 40 years.
The chief made the announcement during a news conference with Mayor Eric Garcetti addressing the status of the city’s crime. The Los Angeles Times said insiders have speculated for a while that the chief would retire before the end of his final term.
“Serving the citizens of Los Angeles for over 40 years has been the honor of a lifetime,” he tweeted on the day of his announcement. “Leading the men and women of the #LAPD- my family – has been a privilege I never thought I’d be worthy of.”
During his appointment as Police Chief, Beck faced major moments in Los Angeles, including the 1992 L.A. riots and the Rampart corruption scandal. Chief Beck said the department was ready for “fresh eyes.” His last day in office is June 27, his 65th birthday.
“I plan on working every day until that day as the Chief of the greatest law enforcement agency in the country,” he added on Twitter.
I plan on working every day until that day as the Chief of the greatest law enforcement agency in the country. I believe we are in the right place to support my decision, and give the next generation of #LAPD leaders an opportunity to lead.
— Chief Charlie Beck (@LAPDChiefBeck) January 19, 2018
The department under Beck’s tenure also faced sharp criticism for its handling of fatal police shootings and the use of force. According to the data compiled by The Guardian, Los Angeles Police killed more people in 2016 — 19 civilians — than any other municipal police force. It also had the highest figure in 2015, the Guardian says.
Though it is not clear who will be the next chief, Latino leaders, including California state senator Kevin de Leon and City Councilman Gil Cedillo, have said that the next chief should be one the immigrant community can trust and believe in, news agencies reported.
