LAPD Chief Charlie Beck investigating inmate release for social event

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Los Angeles Police Department Chief Charlie Beck launched an investigation Friday into claims that officers used false information and mobilized an elaborate security detail to take an inmate out of prison for a social event.

In January, LAPD officers took Rene "Boxer" Enriquez, a former member of the Mexican mafia turned police informant, to an exclusive dinner at an unidentified downtown location for the Young Presidents Organization, a local chapter of CEO's and business leaders, according to a report by the Inspector General released Friday.

Enriquez, who is serving two life sentences for murder, was the secret guest speaker for the event, which was attended by two assistant chiefs, a deputy chief and a commander.

The invitation touted a "once in a lifetime" event, where attendees "will be... amazed, shocked, blown away and maybe even a little scared," the report said.

Security included identifying "safe houses" along the route to the dinner in case of an ambush. Guests had to be screened through metal detectors and give up their cell phones.

The Inspector General's report revealed the cost:

• 38 LAPD employees working 320 hours = $17,000
• Use of the LAPD helicopter = $1,000
• Planning = $4,000
• Total cost = $22,000

The method in which officers obtained Enriquez's release was also under scrutiny.

The Inspector General's report says the LAPD obtained a court order for the "temporary removal of a state prisoner for the purpose of being a witness" in a criminal case, but the court case cited on the writ was closed in 2012.

According to information supplied to the Los Angeles Police Commission, Beck may have been unaware of the plan. The report says he approved resources for what was described to him as a training exercise for an association of police chiefs.

The dinner took place as Enriquez was seeking parole. Many in law enforcement praised him for testifying at the risk of his life.

"The opportunity to listen him is fascinating. But he is still in prison and I think in hindsight it wasn't a good idea to bring him in with a group of businessmen," Los Angeles airport police Chief Pat Gannon.

While the parole board approved Enriquez's release, Governor Jerry Brown blocked it. Beck said at the time that he also did not endorse Enriquez's release.

The Young Presidents Organization says it will reimburse LAPD for its costs that night.