County Police Shootings Up by 70%
By Beacon Staff Report
The Los Angeles Times reported Sunday that 54 people were killed by law enforcement in 2011 in Los Angeles County. According to their investigation, two-thirds of the cases, the person was armed with a gun, knife or other weapons. The report also stated in 12 cases, the person was unarmed.
Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Beck says the majority of shootings are legitimate responses to serious threats. He says police have become more adept at responding quickly to violent situations.