Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell has axed the head of the department’s constitutional policing office, parting ways with a top lawyer who had drawn the wrath of the police union for her role in the controversial release of thousands of mugshot-style photos of officers.
In the most significant change to his staff since taking over the department, McDonnell ousted Lizabeth Rhodes, the LAPD’s highest-ranking civilian employee. McDonnell informed Rhodes through a subordinate that her services would no longer be needed, according to multiple department sources who requested anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss personnel changes.
“I am grateful for Ms. Rhodes’ years of dedicated service, particularly during some of the Department’s most challenging periods,” McDonnell said in a statement. “Her leadership and contributions played a significant role in shaping the direction of the Los Angeles Police Department.”…