Los Angeles City Council approves DOJ consent decree to reform LAPD after heated public comments

The Los Angeles City Council approved a consent decree with the U.S. Department of Justice aimed at reforming the Los Angeles Police Department, voting to adopt the agreement following hours of public comment and debate on Nov. 2, 2000. Council members voted to approve the decree with an amendment instructing the city’s negotiating team to begin the mechanics of selecting a monitor.

The agreement requires the LAPD to implement several oversight and management reforms, including a computerized personnel‑tracking system known in the presentation as “Teams 2,” already scheduled for operation within two years; mandatory audits of categorical uses of force; expanded internal affairs selection requirements; creation of a central database of confidential informants and a new internal audit unit; and public reporting by the inspector general on audits and compliance. The negotiating team said the monitor selection process will be attempted by mutual selection with the DOJ and, if necessary, the federal judge overseeing the agreement will select a monitor; the decree has a five‑year term unless the DOJ seeks an extension.

Supporters told the council the decree is necessary to restore accountability after the Rampart…