The Los Angeles Police Department announced its Robbery-Homicide Division (RHD) was forced to disband its Sex Crimes Unit within the last two weeks. The unit's elimination comes amid budget cuts and the movement to defund the police.
High-ranking officers and law professionals have criticized the move, claiming high-profile cases like Harvey Weinstein and Ron Jeremy will be far more challenging to investigate.
Critics say the special unit consisted of detectives with expertise and special training to properly investigate cases. Now, those cops will be spread out to other LAPD divisions and will decrease the manpower needed to properly work sex crime cases.
Gloria Allred, well-known for representing alleged victims in many high-profile sexual assault cases, spoke out against the LAPD's decision, stating, "The safety of the community is at risk when sex crimes against women and children no longer appears to be a priority."
LAPD units focused on animal cruelty and homeless outreach will also be disbanded. The Safer Cities Initiative in the Mission area, and the Burglary Special Section and Cargo Auto Theft Detail of the Commercial Crimes Division are also set to be cut in addition to the downsizing of other divisions.
The move comes months after the Los Angeles City Council approved a $150 million cut to the LAPD's budget.
Source: TMZ
