POSTSCRIPT ON WILLIE WILLIAMS
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Jim Newton’s analysis of Willie Williams’ role as L.A. police chief (“The Lessons of Willie Williams,” July 27) was revealing and informative, clearly underlining the importance of cooperation among municipal offices and stressing the necessity that a public figure be honest with his staff and the city’s people.
A police chief operates not in an isolated environment but in the spotlight, where he’s going to be constantly judged and rated by the mayor, the City Council and the public. This kind of external pressure is an essential mechanism that tends to make a public servant honor his or her promises and adhere to department rules.
Most important is Newton’s point that the chief “must stand for something.” He needs to absorb the input of both city officials and the public and create a progressive vision for the benefit of the force.
Cristin Dorgelo
Los Angeles
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