The measure on the May 16 Los Angeles city ballot that would change the LAPD’s discipline process has upended the usual political dynamics around the issue: The officers’ union is advocating for an increased civilian role in police oversight, while Black Lives Matter has joined Chief Charlie Beck in expressing skepticism about the idea.
Measure C would give officers facing firing or other major discipline the option of requesting that the board of rights that hears their case be comprised of three civilians, rather than the current makeup of two LAPD command officers and one civilian.
If the chief wants to suspend an officer for more than 22 days, or fire him, the board of rights takes the case. It decides whether the officer is guilty, and if so, it rules on the disciplinary action. The chief can reduce the discipline but not increase it.