'Ghost stops' with no body cam footage land LAPD gang unit members under investigation

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At least eight members of an LAPD anti-gang unit are under internal investigation for failing to activate their body-worn cameras and pulling people over without documenting the traffic stops, according to four sources with knowledge of the case.Officers from the 77th Street Division’s gang enforcement detail were caught making so-called “ghost stops” while being monitored by undercover LAPD investigators, according to the four sources, who requested anonymity in order to discuss a confidential personnel matter.A department spokesperson confirmed Thursday that several employees had been placed on restricted duties, meaning they are temporarily prohibited from most public contact pending the outcome of the investigation.The LAPD is probing “potential policy and procedural violations” by officers in the 77th Street Division, the spokesperson said.“The Department holds its employees to the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, and integrity,” Officer Norma Eisenman said in an emailed statement.

“These actions were taken to ensure a thorough review of the matter and to maintain public trust and confidence.”Details about the underlying allegation remain murky, but the department sources familiar with the matter said the LAPD’s secretive Special Operations Division tailed officers who were under investigation.Department policy requires officers to record most public encounters; the officers were accused of turning off their body cameras during critical moments — suggesting they may have been trying to conceal their activities.After several past scandals and reforms, LAPD officials have said gang officers are among the most vetted in the department.

Anti-gang units, officials say, form the backbone of the department’s crime fighting efforts in neighborhoods plagued by gang violence.The stops now under scrutiny occurred in parts of South L.A.with...