LAPD Chief: 'Several Months' for Dorner Investigation
Los Angeles Police Department Chief Charlie Beck said Tuesday morning that the investigation into Christopher Dorner's firing could take several months. Chief Beck also gave updates on the status of the investigation, the distribution of the reward money, and the department's employment practices.
Dorner's violence stemmed from bitterness over being dismissed from the LAPD in 2008, after fellow officers accused him of falsely stating that his fellow officer violently kicked a suspect.
Chief Beck said Gerald Chaleff, special assistant for constitutional policing, is currently investigating Dorner's firing from the department. The investigation could take several months, said Beck, and that all evidence would be thoroughly reviewed.
"You have to be true to the Constitution of the United States in everything you do," said Chief Beck.
Beck emphasized that the transparent investigation into Dorner's firing and the allegations of racism made in Dorner's online manifesto will inform department policy.
On February 6, authorities released Dorner's manifesto which argued that racism is prevalent within LAPD practices. In the manifesto, Dorner states "I'm not a dope dealer, I don't have multiple babies momma's. I am an American by choice, I am a son, I am a brother, I am a military service member, I am a man who has lost complete faith in the system, when the system betrayed, slandered, and libeled me."
Beck said that the public will not be swayed by Dorner's allegations, explaining that the investigation will clear up the air and restore trust.
"If we don't have public confidence, I can't provide public safety."
Chief Beck also discussed what will be done with the $1 million in reward money offered during the search for Dorner in Tuesday's press conference. The money will still be paid out despite Dorner's death.
"Over 31 donors were involved in the posting of one million dollars," Beck told ATVN. "We will meet with the individuals involved and ensure the reward is fully and equitably distributed."
Dorner's violence is suspected to have started with the killing of Keith Lawrence and his fiancée Monica Quan. Four days later, Dorner shot and killed a Riverside police officer who was searching for Dorner. He ended his killing spree with a 33-year-old San Bernardino County sheriff's deputy, who was killed during the shootout in Big Bear.
Dorner's manifesto made threats to numerous members of the L.A.P.D.Chief Beck said more than 50 police officers and their families were under protection during the search for Dorner.
How can the public believe in an unbiased investigation if outside investigators weren't used?