LAPD officials also questioned the study’s methodology. Sergio Perez, chief of accountability and oversight for the controller’s office, said Wednesday that the office stood by its findings. Another contested portion of the audit dealt with the use of LAPD helicopters for non-law enforcement functions, such as air shows and flights to promote the LAPD or raise money for police-related causes. Such uses came under scrutiny by department officials in 2014 after a police chopper dropped scores of golf balls onto a golf course as part of a fundraiser. LAPD officials said the helicopters used in ceremonial roles were already in the air for other purposes and would have been diverted if a serious emergency had occurred.

Source: Los Angeles Times March 01, 2024 16:16 UTC