Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca announced Tuesday that he will not seek re-election for a fifth term and will be retiring at the end of January, cutting his fourth term short.
“I will go out on my terms. The reasons for doing so are so many, most personal and private,” Baca said at a press conference Tuesday. “I don’t see myself as the future. I see myself as part of the past.”
Baca, currently in his 48th year with the department and his 15th as L.A. County sheriff, made his announcement amid recent controversy regarding federal investigations into Los Angeles sheriff deputy practices under his tenure.
Last month, federal prosecutors filed criminal charges against 18 current and former sheriff deputies, accusing them of corruption, abusing prisoners and obstructing justice after a FBI investigation into the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Another probe from the Department of Justice revealed widespread abuses of power and racial discrimination by deputies in the Antelope Valley, including unlawful searches, improper detentions, excessive force and discrimination against black individuals.
Although he did not endorse a candidate for the upcoming election for his position, Baca said he did recommend to the L.A. County Board of Supervisors that Asst. Sheriff Terri McDonald fill his role in the interim.
On Monday, Baca endorsed a proposal to create a permanent civilian oversight commission for the Sheriff’s Department.
Compiled by Christopher Hurley, Bruin contributor.