The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), one of the largest and most scrutinized law enforcement agencies in the U.S., has undergone significant reforms in recent years. These changes come in response to longstanding criticisms over use of force, racial bias, and lack of transparency. With growing demands for police accountability, the LAPD has introduced new policies, training programs, and oversight measures aimed at rebuilding public trust while maintaining public safety.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the key reforms implemented by the LAPD, their impact so far, and the challenges that remain in transforming policing in Los Angeles.
1. Strengthening Use-of-Force Policies
Banning the Carotid Restraint
One of the most notable reforms was the LAPD’s decision in 2020 to ban the carotid restraint, a controversial technique that involves applying pressure to the sides of a person’s neck to temporarily restrict blood flow. Critics argued that the tactic was dangerous and had led to unnecessary deaths.
Following nationwide protests after the killing of George Floyd, then-Chief Michel Moore announced the ban, stating that the move was necessary to align policing practices with community expectations.
De-escalation Training
The LAPD has also expanded de-escalation training, emphasizing tactics that reduce the likelihood of violent confrontations. Officers are now trained to slow down encounters, use verbal persuasion, and exhaust all alternatives before resorting to force.
A 2023 report by the LAPD Inspector General found that incidents involving use of force had decreased by 12% since the new training was implemented, suggesting progress in reducing violent encounters.
2. Increased Transparency and Accountability
Body-Worn Cameras
Since 2016, the LAPD has required officers to wear body cameras, but recent reforms have strengthened policies around their use. Officers must now activate cameras during all public interactions, and failure to do so can result in disciplinary action.
Additionally, the department has moved toward faster public release of footage in critical incidents, a shift aimed at increasing transparency and accountability.
Use-of-Force Review Boards
The LAPD has established Use-of-Force Review Boards, where independent experts and community members evaluate incidents involving serious force. These boards provide recommendations for discipline or policy changes, ensuring greater oversight.
Inspector General Oversight
The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) has seen its powers expanded, allowing for more robust investigations into misconduct. The OIG now has direct access to officer records and can audit department practices without waiting for internal referrals.
3. Addressing Racial Bias and Community Relations
Implicit Bias Training
The LAPD has introduced mandatory implicit bias training to help officers recognize and counteract subconscious prejudices. Studies suggest that such training can reduce racially disproportionate stops and arrests, though long-term effectiveness remains debated.
Community Safety Partnership (CSP) Program
One of the most innovative reforms is the Community Safety Partnership (CSP), a program that assigns officers to work long-term in public housing developments to build trust with residents. Instead of traditional policing, CSP officers focus on crime prevention, youth mentorship, and conflict mediation.
A 2022 UCLA study found that CSP areas saw a 33% drop in violent crime and improved community perceptions of police.
Limiting Low-Level Stops
To reduce racial disparities in policing, the LAPD has revised its policy on pretextual stops—where officers stop someone for a minor violation (like a broken taillight) to investigate unrelated suspicions. Critics argue these stops disproportionately target Black and Latino drivers.
Under the new rules, officers must now document the reason for stops and cannot use them as a “fishing expedition” without reasonable suspicion of a serious crime.
4. Reforming Discipline and Officer Accountability
Faster Disciplinary Processes
Historically, LAPD disciplinary cases could drag on for years. Recent reforms have streamlined the process, ensuring that investigations into misconduct are completed within 180 days. This change aims to hold officers accountable more swiftly while protecting due process rights.
Revisiting the “48-Hour Rule”
The LAPD has modified the “48-hour rule”, which previously allowed officers involved in shootings to wait two days before giving a statement. Critics argued this gave officers time to align their stories. Under the new policy, officers must provide an initial statement sooner, though they still cannot be compelled to speak before 24 hours.
Tracking Problem Officers
A new Early Intervention System flags officers with multiple complaints or use-of-force incidents for additional training or counseling. The goal is to identify and correct problematic behavior before it escalates.
5. Challenges and Criticisms of the Reforms
While the LAPD’s reforms are a step in the right direction, challenges remain:
Resistance Within the Department
Some officers and police unions have pushed back against reforms, arguing they handcuff police and make it harder to combat crime. Balancing officer morale with accountability remains a delicate issue.
Rising Crime Rates
Los Angeles has seen an increase in violent crime and homelessness, leading some residents to demand more aggressive policing. Reform advocates argue that community-based strategies (like CSP) are more effective long-term, but the pressure for immediate results persists.
Need for Independent Oversight
While the OIG and civilian review boards have more power, some activists argue that true independent oversight (such as a fully civilian police commission with firing authority) is still lacking.
6. The Future of LAPD Reforms
The LAPD’s reforms reflect a national shift toward community-oriented policing and greater accountability. While progress has been made, sustaining these changes will require:
- Continued funding for training and community programs
- Stronger civilian oversight mechanisms
- Ongoing dialogue between police and communities
The ultimate test will be whether these reforms lead to lasting reductions in police violence, racial disparities, and improved public trust.
Conclusion
The LAPD’s recent reforms mark a significant departure from its past, signaling a commitment to transparency, accountability, and community trust. While challenges remain, the changes—from banning dangerous restraints to expanding de-escalation training—demonstrate a willingness to evolve.
For Los Angeles, the path forward lies in balancing public safety with justice, ensuring that policing serves all communities fairly. The LAPD’s journey toward reform is far from over, but the steps taken so far offer a blueprint for other departments nationwide.
What do you think about these reforms? Are they enough, or is more radical change needed? Share your thoughts in the comments below!