McOsker Briefs: Police Accountability and Pedestrian Safety

Police Accountability Reform

CD15 — In Los Angeles when a police officer is accused of misconduct, the officer has the option to go before an all-civilian “board of rights.” These all-civilian boards have proven to be more lenient towards officers which is why 91% of officers accused of misconduct opt for this disciplinary route.

On Feb. 17, Council member Tim McOsker introduced a motion with Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez to seek reforms for police accountability. Councilmember McOsker said in his press release, reform is necessary and we want to use every tool to get this right.

The motion aims to increase accountability by authorizing the Chief of Police to immediately fire officers for egregious misconduct. It also looks at the option of repealing the all-civilian commission and reforming it with alternative models.

Pedestrian Safety Updates

Through the Los Angeles Department of Transportation, CD15 Feb. 13 activated a new pedestrian hybrid beacon at 255th St. and Normandie Ave.

This new system uses a three-light yellow and red system, which is activated when a pedestrian pushes the button to cross. Last year marked the highest annual pedestrian death toll in 20 years from traffic violence and updated traffic technology like this can help save lives.