Leaders from San Diego's Police Department faced members of the city council today explaining what they've done to address several recent misconduct cases.
But the SDPD received a largely warm reception from the council's Public Safety and Neighborhood Services Committee.
Council members stressed that of more than 1,800 officers, only 11 have been involved in the misconduct cases that got so much attention last spring. Allegations in those cases ranged from drunk driving, to domestic violence and rape. Police Chief William Lansdowne has implemented a seven-step plan to try to prevent future misconduct. He attributes the spate of misconduct to the poor economy.
"We've not been through a situation, or circumstance in a long time where we've downsized the police department by such large numbers and reduced the level of supervision," said Lansdowne. "And I've not had so many officers come to me before who are losing their residences, or are going through a divorce, because of the financial problems."
Lansdowne's plan calls for more ethics training and wellness screening for officers.
