Topic: William Bratton

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Los Angeles riots: 20 years later, has LAPD reformed?

The view that the Los Angeles Police Department was corrupt and abusive fueled the Rodney King riots. Twenty years later, however, the LAPD has won over some of its harshest critics.
Progress Watch
US crime rate at lowest point in decades. Why America is safer now.

The crime rate for serious crimes, including murder, rape, and assault, has dropped significantly since the early 1990s in part because of changes in technology and policing, experts say.
Pepper spray explanation doesn't wash with UC Davis students

UC Davis chancellor says she did not order campus police to use pepper spray. Chancellor Linda Katehi told 1,000 students that police were directed not to use force.
From tumult of London riots, a father's voice emerges

Tariq Jahan, whose son Haroon was killed in the London riots, has gained Britain's ear with his dignified but urgent pleas for calm.
How a savage ballpark beating improved the LAPD's image

The brutal beating of a Giants fan at Dodger Stadium on Opening Day shook the entire city and led to a wave of cooperation with the LAPD – and renewed appreciation for its hard work.
Rodney King riots won't happen again, say police

Rodney King retrospective: Twenty years later, a look back at the Rodney King beating, the riots that followed, and how far the LAPD think they have come.
New LAPD chief known for innovative approach to gang violence

Charlie Beck, a 30-year-plus LAPD veteran from a police family, is expected to carry on the reforms of his former boss and chief William Bratton.
New LAPD chief's challenge: build on Bratton's legacy

The three finalists for the post – all from within the LAPD – have big shoes to fill with the departure of William Bratton, who is credited with turning the force around.
LAPD chief Bratton leaves a police force transformed

Bratton, who ends his tenure at the LAPD this week, is credited for reinventing a police force once known for brutality and corruption, and bringing down crime to historic lows.
In stunning reversal, LAPD goes from reviled to respected

The police department once known for beating Rodney King has resuscitated its public image by reaching out to the minority communities it once antagonized.
Should L.A. pay $2 million to protect parade from 'knuckleheads'?

Rioting broke out after the Lakers won the NBA title Sunday. The city is guarding against a similar problems during Wednesday's victory parade.