March 19, 2021
Former LAPD Detective on Video Calling Black Man the N-Word, Investigation Launched
The LAPD has launched an investigation after a confrontation between a Black man and a white former Los Angeles Police Department detective was caught on video; the former detective can be heard using racist epithets toward the man.
According to Newsweek, during a confrontation in Valencia, California, following a traffic incident, a video was posted on social media of former LAPD homicide detective John Motto screaming at a Black man while insulting him with racist comments. Because of Motto’s actions, the LAPD is reviewing 370 cases he was involved in to determine if he used racial bias in his duties.
Incident in Valencia from this weekend where man is seen using racial slurs after a car accident. pic.twitter.com/ddHcYIWp8Q
— What’s Up SCV (@whatsupscv) March 16, 2021
A statement was posted to the official Twitter account of the LAPD.
It has come to the Department’s attention that there is a video posted on social media of a retired LAPD detective. The individual in the video uses a racial slur while engaged in an argument.
— LAPD HQ (@LAPDHQ) March 17, 2021
The individual is not a current member of the LAPD and retired in May 2020 as a detective assigned to Operations Central Bureau Homicide. To ensure there is no current Department nexus to this incident, there has been an internal investigation started.
— LAPD HQ (@LAPDHQ) March 17, 2021
What is seen in the video is not reflective of the thousands of hard working and dedicated men and women of the Los Angeles Police Department.
— LAPD HQ (@LAPDHQ) March 17, 2021
The Los Angeles District Attorney’s office has announced they will be reviewing 370 cases handled by the retired LAPD detective. The Department has pledged full cooperation with the process.
— LAPD HQ (@LAPDHQ) March 17, 2021
Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon also tweeted this response:
The video in question is disturbing & involves a former homicide detective exhibiting racist tendencies. @LADAOffice is taking immediate action & has identified several cases where this individual was a witness. We are in the process of notifying defense attorneys in such cases. https://t.co/ksQhGuo1t4
— George Gascón (@GeorgeGascon) March 17, 2021