Police union fund is still questioned

The Los Angeles Police Commission once again raised concerns Tuesday about a union fund that reimburses officers who are suspended without pay for misconduct.

Members of the oversight body pressed Police Chief William J. Bratton and a member of the department’s Internal Affairs Group for assurances that the policy doesn’t undermine the LAPD’s ability to discipline officers.

Bratton acknowledged to commissioners that he could not provide any clear proof that officers take suspensions and conduct issues seriously, saying he and his staff were only offering a “subjective opinion” that the reimbursements were not a problem.

Under the terms of the Police Protective League’s program, officers can be paid for up to 25 days of lost wages each year. To be eligible, officers must pay $20 a month into the pool of money and must waive their right to appeal the discipline.

Commissioners had called for the report in May. They made clear that they were not satisfied with the presentation, voting to bring the issue back for further discussion in the future.