LAPD Chief Charlie Beck announces retirement
LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Los Angeles Police Department Chief Charlie Beck announced his retirement on Friday, saying "the department is ready for fresh eyes."
At a press conference, an emotional Beck made the announcement he's retiring from the department he's been a part of for more than 40 years. Beck, who will turn 65 this year, said timing is everything.
"My overarching reason is because now is the right time. We have the right people in place to be selected as chief, and we have the right people in place to do the selecting," he said.
He added that he personally wants to hand the department over to his successor and will continue to work every day until he retires on June 27. No interim chief will be needed, he said.
He also posted details on Twitter.
Beck has helped implement programs like de-escalation training and body cameras for officers, but he has also come under fire from Black Lives Matter, who have been calling for his firing.
"We are winning, and we want to also send a message to whoever is coming behind Charlie Beck that the people will also hold them accountable," said Melina Abdullah, of the group.
From members of L.A. City Council to the L.A. Police Commision, were praising Beck for his commitment to protect and serve.
L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti said Beck was the right chief at the right time for L.A.
"I want to thank Chief Beck on behalf of 4 million people, many of whom are alive today because of his work, many of whom are in a better place right now because of his work," Garcetti said.
Garcetti also issued a statement after the announcement. The statement read: "Los Angeles was in the most capable hands from the moment that Charlie Beck became Chief of Police. He is forged in steel, but has led the LAPD with his heart. Chief Beck embraced a steady path of reform at a tough moment for policing in America - even when there was criticism from both sides. He is one of the most honorable men to ever lead the LAPD, and he should be proud of what we've accomplished for the people of this city."
Beck, the 55th chief of the LAPD, held the post for eight years.
He comes from a law enforcement family. His father is a former LAPD deputy chief and his wife Cindy was a former sheriff's deputy.
Beck said he hopes to help in the selection process for the next chief, which will be up to the mayor and the police commission. A nationwide search is now underway.
