Daniel Taylor, two letters in one week. Congratulations!

I would like to thank LAPD’s Sgt. Eric O. Jones for both his forthrightness as well as his bravery in coming forward in support of the legally armed citizen. I knew you were out there somewhere. I can only hope that there are many more that feel like you do who will be encouraged by your action to come forward and stand up for our rights. However, at this time, the LAPD is under the gun once again, brought down by a ring of rogue officers who by their illegal activities have painted both themselves and, unfortunately, honest men and women of the department with the same brush of corruption. I am also sure that by stating his beliefs in such a public way, Sgt. Jones has noticeably raised his profile to such an extent that he may incur the ire of his superiors, most notably Chief Bernard C. Parks, who is well known for his anti-NRA, anti-gun position. I am also sure, though he would be loathe to admit it, Chief Parks knows in his heart that Sgt. Jones is correct in his judgement.

Daily News 9/29/ 99

Re: LAPD Investigation:

Let's get rid of administrative leave with pay. That's not punishment. it's a paid vacation. If the individual is cleared, then back pay can be restored.

There are just too many good cops paying the price for the dirtbags in their ranks. Therfore, I suggest that the LAPD's peronnel files be made accessible via the internet. Certain items of personal information would, of course, be omitted: home addresses, phone numbers, family members,etc.

A person who has had an encounter with an officer could call up the officer's service record. It could then be determined whether the officer was just having a bad day, or there was a pattern, indicated by similar prior incidents, warranting the filing of a complaint or charges. it is sad the LAPD finds itself in these straits time and again. I doubt that this department can ever be trusted to police itself.

Daily News

10/3/99

D.F. Taylor