LAPD lieutenant claims retaliation for reporting misconduct in gang unit

A Los Angeles police lieutenant, Mark Garza, has filed a legal claim against the city, alleging he was punished for reporting misconduct in an anti-gang unit. He claims superiors ignored his warnings about officers conducting illegal "ghost stops" and misusing body cameras. Garza's allegations come amid an investigation into his unit for illegal traffic stops and thefts. He asserts that department audits were inadequate, allowing misconduct to go unnoticed. Garza was relieved of duty earlier this year, while several officers face termination or criminal charges. The LAPD has since tightened body camera policies and is considering using AI to review footage. An internal report suggests that misuse of body cameras may be more widespread than previously acknowledged.