LAPD: who will succeed Bratton?

20 October 2009 |permalink | email article

The Gnomes of Spring Street whisper that a decision is expected around the middle of November about who will be named to succeed Los Angeles Police Chief William Bratton, stepping down from his post at the end of this month to head the newly formed Altegrity Security Consulting firm in New York City which will provide consulting services to police departments around the world.

The three finalists are said to be Jim McDonnell, First Assistant Chief and Chief of Staff; Earl Pasinger, Assistant Chief in charge of operations; and Charlie Beck, Deputy Chief and Chief of Detectives.

McDonnell, while not a favorite of the Police Protective League, is the least political and very well liked by citywide homeowner groups and within the business community.

Pasinger, the LAPD’s highest ranking African-American officer, has the support of Rep. Maxine Waters and a several major Democratic elected officials. Then a LAPD lieutenant, Pasinger was the owner of a 9mm Beretta handgun O.J. Simpson had with him during the June 17, 1994 Bronco freeway chase when he was arrested.

Beck is known among insiders at City Hall, and in some LAPD circles, to be the choice of Los Angeles Mayor who will make the final decision.

1684