Police Chief Questioned on Misconduct Allegations

Spurred by news reports about alleged misconduct within the Culver City Police Department, the City Council has asked the chief to answer questions ranging from the nature of the police chief’s private security firm to the department’s policy on hogtying suspects.

The council Tuesday sent a list of 37 questions to Chief Ted Cooke. A few questions are addressed to the city’s chief administrative officer and city attorney.

In September, a newsmagazine article described Cooke’s ownership of a private security firm that employs off-duty officers, quoted former female employees who said they were sexually harassed by the chief, and described alleged instances of misconduct by off-duty officers.

“In response to the community and their own concerns, the council has gathered this list of questions to clarify the chief’s position and find out what the situation actually is,” city spokeswoman Randi Joseph said.

Joseph said that, with the exception of questions regarding personnel matters or ongoing lawsuits, all answers to the council’s questions will be made public.