Civilian Oversight Panel Unanimously Approves Resolution Calling for the Resignation of Sheriff Alex Villanueva
Los Angeles, CA – The Civilian Oversight Commission for the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department hosted a virtual Commission meeting today.
Resolution on L.A. County Sheriff
The Commission unanimously voted (8-0) to approve a Resolution Expressing No Confidence In L.A. County Sheriff Alex Villanueva’s Leadership and Condemning his Failure to Cooperate with Civilian Oversight. The Resolution calls for the resignation of the Sheriff.
“The ad hoc committee spent a lot of time trying to come up with a resolution that would signal to the Sheriff that we’re serious and the ball would be in his court to make things better,” said Commission Chair Lael Rubin. “I don’t think he has any intention of making anything better.”
Rubin continued, “The Sheriff responded with a letter addressing the proposed resolution that was demeaning to the Commission and members of the community. It really gave a sense that he has no intention of working with us. I will join the colleagues of mine in calling for his resignation.”
After discussion, Commissioners agreed on updated language to the resolution that underscored that they have no confidence in the Sheriff’s ability to effectively govern the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) and ultimately concluding that he should resign immediately.
“The resolution highlights that L.A. County residents deserve a Sheriff’s Department that is cooperative, respectful, transparent, accountable, trustworthy, and amenable to change,” said Brian K. Williams, Executive Director of the Sheriff Civilian Oversight Commission.
Alleged Banditos Assault
In other action, the Commission heard from Inspector General Max Huntsman who presented an overview of the OIG Report: Analysis of the Criminal Investigation of the Alleged Assault by Banditos. A Sheriff’s Department representative, Lieutenant Mark Lopez read the responsive letter from the Sheriff.
L.A. County Sheriff’s Department’s Budget
The Commission also heard from Sheila Williams, a Senior Manager from the Chief Executive Office who presented on the LASD and Body Worn Camera Budget and answered Commissioner questions. LASD Division Director Conrad Meredith provided a verbal statement regarding the budget.
