Board recommends multiple certification actions after hearings on DUI and bias allegations; several cases move to commission

At its Jan. 16 hearing the Peace Officers Standing Accountability Advisory Board heard four case presentations from POST professional conduct consultants and legal staff and took votes on multiple officer-certification matters.

Tommy Thompson (POST case 240-0920), formerly with the Los Angeles Police Department: POST's division presented evidence that Thompson drove under the influence of alcohol and a prescription drug on two occasions in March 2023 while on duty. The division recommended revocation of Thompson’s POST certificate. After public comment from Thompson and deliberation, the board voted to recommend revocation. Motion text (as recorded): "Recommend that Mr. Thompson's certification be revoked." Mover: Board member Doyle; Second: Board member Laura. Vote tally reported to the board: 7 yes, 0 no, 1 abstention. Outcome: recommendation to the Commission to revoke Thompson's POST certificate.

Gabriel Gaxiola (POST case 230-2971), Los Angeles Police Department sergeant: The division presented an administrative record showing a May 13, 2022 arrest with a blood-alcohol concentration in excess of the legal limit (lab result 0.155% five hours after collection; agency estimate higher near the time of driving) and a prior 2016 alcohol-related conviction.…