Jim McDonnell, the LAPD chief, pledged to assess and reform the department within 90 days after his appointment. However, nearly six months into his tenure, little progress appears to have been made, largely due to budgetary limitations exacerbated by recent wildfires. With over 400 civilian jobs at risk due to a $1-billion budget deficit, McDonnell has highlighted the need to streamline operations while expressing concerns over potential impacts on essential roles that officers cannot easily fill, demonstrating the complexities inherent in the department's restructuring efforts amid fiscal challenges.
"I have an opportunity as we move forward with our senior leadership team to reevaluate based on what the budget ends up looking like," McDonnell said.
"We know cops aren't going to turn a wrench, and we need somebody to fix" broken-down squad cars, Councilmember Tim McOsker said.
"Some have expressed concerns that patrol officers would be taken out of the field to backfill certain desk jobs," indicating potential operational risks.
"Now, the chief said, the challenges ahead are clear." McDonnell's acknowledgment reflects the complexities he faces in his reform efforts.
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