This LBPD-branded challenge coin was being sold on a website called Clear Hot Gear. Screenshot from clearhotgear.com. Long Beach police say they’re investigating whether any of its employees were involved in producing or selling a “derogatory” commemorative coin that refers to civil unrest and protests earlier this year as “riots.” The coin appears to reference Long Beach’s massive May 31 demonstration against police brutality and racism, which was followed by looting across the city. Its design includes an “LB” logo along with the words “Long Beach Police Dept” and “2020 riots.” On the opposite side, there’s an illustration of a skull wearing a helmet and the words “hats & bats,” a nickname for the riot baton and helmets used by police officers during civil unrest. After images of the coin’s design started circulating on social media, Long Beach police officials called it unauthorized and derogatory. “This memorabilia was not sanctioned or approved by our department and does not reflect our professional standards, core values, and commitment to our community,” the LBPD said in a statement. The Long Beach Police Officers Association also disavowed any connection to the coin or the store selling it. Similar memorabilia, known as challenge coins, […]
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