LAPPL concerned about attacks on LAPD officers; asks for public’s help

For Immediate Release

Contact:
Eric Rose (805) 624-0572 or
Paul Haney (626) 755-4759

Los Angeles, November 6, 2009 -- Paul M. Weber, President of the Los Angeles Police Protective League (LAPPL), expressed deep concern today that LAPD officers have come under attack in recent hours and appealed for the public’s help in capturing the criminals responsible:

“Last night, officers on patrol in the Mission Area were conducting a burglary-from-motor-vehicle investigation when they heard gunfire and observed their police vehicle had been struck by bullets,” Weber said. “The officers did not return fire and a subsequent comprehensive search of the area turned up one suspect, who is now in custody. Thankfully, no officers were injured during the attempt on their lives.”

“Just hours earlier,” Weber continued, “a suspect opened fire on an off-duty LAPD officer at the intersection of Martin Luther King and Avalon Blvd. The gunman simply pulled up next to the officer's car and opened fire. Fortunately, the officer was not hurt even though the suspect fired several shots before fleeing in a green Chevrolet Tahoe with chrome rims.

“In addition to these unproved attacks in the last 24 hours, there have been two other violent incidents in the last few days in which officers were either shot at or had suspects point guns at them. Both incidents resulted in officer-involved shootings.

“The LAPPL is asking for the public's help. Anyone with information about the suspects in either of these attempted murders of police officers is urged to contact the LAPD at (877) LAPD-24-7 (527-3247). Callers may also text ‘CRIMES’ using a cell phone or log on to www.lapdonline.org and click on ‘Web Tips.’ When using a cell phone, all messages should begin with ‘LAPD.’ Tipsters may remain anonymous.”

Weber emphasized that these events were not exchanges of gunfire between criminals and officers, “These are cold-blooded attempts to murder unsuspecting officers. We hope that the community will be willing to help by reporting anything they know regarding these attacks.

“Public safety requires a strong two-way partnership. As our dedicated LAPD officers protect our city, we need to help protect them by making it clear that Los Angeles is a city in which violence on law enforcement is never tolerated, and that those who threaten our police officers threaten our own communities.”

About the LAPPL Formed in 1923, the Los Angeles Police Protective League (LAPPL) represents the more than 9,900 dedicated and professional sworn members of the Los Angeles Police Department. The LAPPL serves to advance the interests of LAPD officers through legislative and legal advocacy, political action and education. The LAPPL can be found on the Web at www.LAPD.com.