County supervisor urges support for sheriff civilian oversight

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas says a civilian oversight commission will restore public confidence in the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

He is urging fellow board members to vote next Tuesday to establish the panel of citizen commissioners, and not wait until after the November election, as some want.

After years of reports of mismanagement, corruption and brutality in the sheriff's department, Ridley-Thomas says the board should not wait any longer to approve the commission.

Speaking on Sunday's "Eyewitness Newsmakers," Ridley-Thomas said, "What are we waiting for? More federal indictments? What are we waiting for? More embarrassment?"

Appearing with the supervisor, the leading candidate for sheriff, Long Beach Police Chief Jim McDonnell, who supports the citizen commission, said it could help L.A. County avoid a federal consent decree imposed on the sheriff's department. "I think it could happen," said McDonnell. "We have an opportunity to put oversight in place."

Candidate Paul Tanaka did not respond to invitations to speak on "Newsmakers."

Also appearing on the program -- Miriam Aroni Krinsky, the former executive director of the Citizens' Commission on Jail Violence.

Her blue ribbon panel made 60 recommendations for reform, but did not take a position on citizens' oversight of the sheriff. She said she has now become convinced the commission is necessary.

Lt. Brian Moriguchi, president of the Professional Peace Officers Association, does not oppose the citizen commission, but says the county should have the Office of Inspector General in place first. Chief McDonnell said they should be established at the same time so they can work together.

The full interviews air at 11 a.m. Sunday, August 3, on "Eyewitness Newsmakers."