LOS ANGELES (AP) -- The mayor's pick to lead the Los Angeles Police Department says he will continue the success of his predecessor and will not let the city down.
Deputy Chief Charlie Beck, a three-decade LAPD veteran, spoke at a press conference Tuesday after Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa tapped him to lead the force. He replaces William Bratton, who is credited with decreasing crime and improving race relations during his seven-year tenure.
Beck, who helped clean up the image of the scandal-plagued Rampart Division, says he spent hours trying to convince Villaraigosa that he was the right choice.
Beck would become the city's 55th police chief if the City Council ratifies the mayor's selection.
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