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LAPD Stands Down South L.A. Gang Unit Over Alleged Body‑Cam Failures

Civilian overseers say the case could point to broader problems across gang enforcement units.

Overview

  • The LAPD, which stood down the 77th Street Division gang unit Tuesday, opened an Internal Affairs probe into claims some officers failed to record or document stops.
  • About a dozen officers were ordered to have no public contact and several others were reassigned while leaders decide on possible suspensions.
  • The department's civilian watchdog requested a citywide review of all gang details after Police Commission members raised concerns about recurring camera violations and unit culture.
  • A confidential 2023 audit at the 77th Street division found wider body‑camera lapses tied to lax oversight and confusion on when to record, echoing an earlier Mission Division scandal.
  • LAPD data show the 77th Street gang unit has stopped mostly Black residents in an area that is about one third Black, which is driving calls for tighter oversight.