Ex-LAPD chief warns Raman’s plan to replace McDonnell may spark officer exodus

In an exclusive interview, former LAPD chief Bill Bratton condemned mayoral hopeful Nithya Raman’s intention to replace current chief Jim McDonnell as political malfeasance, warning it could spark a large-scale officer exodus. Bratton highlighted the department’s dwindling force, now around 8,500 officers, and argued that removing McDonnell less than two years before the 2028 Olympics would jeopardize the city’s security strategy.

McDonnell, a veteran who served during the 1984 Olympics and has been central to current planning, is praised by Bratton for his experience with modern threats such as terrorism and drones. Raman has accused McDonnell of failing to protect protesters against federal immigration raids and pledged new leadership at an October 5 rally. Bratton also noted that appointing a figure like former district attorney George Gascón would further alienate rank-and-file officers. He stressed the need for stability, especially as the city prepares to host millions of spectators, athletes, and world leaders.