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In the post-Dorner era of the Los Angeles Police Department, dozens of ousted officers are hoping they can get their cases a second look, although for many, the writing may already be on the wall.The L.A. Times reports that there are 40 terminated officers who want the department to review their cases.
While LAPD Chief Charlie Beck said he would make good on his offer to review all such cases, the policies already in place create some immediate limitations. The Times elaborates:
In letters to those wishing to have their case reviewed, department officials explain that the city's charter, which spells out the authority granted to various public officials, prevents the police chief from opening new disciplinary proceedings for an officer fired more than three years ago.
Bottom line: If you're looking to get your job back with the LAPD, and you lost your job over three years ago, it's not going to happen, period.
The letter goes on to explain the officers "are being informed of this to forestall any misconceptions about the power of the department."
Those who are able to proceed have had the steps clearly outlined. They must submit in writing details of the new circumstances and evidence "that would justify a re-examination of your termination."
The influx of fired officers seeking re-review of their cases stems from the recent case of terminated cop Christopher Dorner, who was so angered by his dismissal and the process that led to his termination he set out to seek revenge on the LAPD and law enforcement in general, writing an elaborate "manifesto" outlining his frustrations and claims. Dorner went on to allegedly murder three people in or tied to the LAPD, and led dozens of SoCal law enforcement agencies on a prolonged manhunt that ended in a violent showdown in Big Bear during which Dorner took his own life.
Read all of our coverage of the Dorner case here.
