Deputy chief named LA police chief, source says
Michael R. BloodCharlie Beck has been named Los Angeles' police chief.
A person in the mayor's office told The Associated Press on Tuesday the deputy chief was appointed by Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa to succeed William Bratton. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because a formal announcement is scheduled later in the day.
Beck, a 33-year veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department, takes over a force that has seen dramatic declines in crime during Bratton's seven-year tenure.
Bratton unexpectedly left the department three years before the expiration of his second, five-year term.
Beck declined comment.
The City Council must ratify the mayor's choice but no serious opposition is expected.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa is expected to announce his choice for the next leader of the Los Angeles Police Department.
Calling it possibly the most important decision he'll make as mayor, Villaraigosa is set to name his pick from a field of three finalists at 11 a.m. Tuesday.
The announcement comes days after William Bratton, who headed the LAPD for seven years, stepped down to take a private sector job.
The three finalists are: First Assistant Chief Jim McDonnell, and deputy chiefs Charlie Beck and Michael Moore.
Villaraigosa's pick is subject to confirmation by the City Council.
Bratton, who is credited with playing a pivotal role in the LAPD's turnaround, unexpectedly left the department three years before the expiration of his second, five-year term.