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Audit: LAPD's Compliance with Military Equipment State Law AB 481

Performance audit of the LAPD's compliance with California state law AB 481. (AB 481's purpose is to bring public oversight to the funding, acquisition and use of military equipment by law enforcement agencies.)

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LAPD AB 481 Compliance Audit Report Cover

Key Findings

LAPD is failing to fully comply with state law AB 481 to bring transparency and accountability to its military equipment usage and policy.

Specifically, LAPD is failing to:

  • Effectively track military equipment like grenades and tear gas
  • Detail when, why, and how military equipment was used
  • Keep up with other California law enforcement agencies
AB 481

In the fall of 2021, California Assembly Bill (AB) 481 was signed into law with the intent and purpose of bringing public oversight and accountability to the funding, acquisition and use of military equipment.

Military Equipment

Includes everything from drones and high-caliber firearms to flashbang grenades and battering rams.

Key Recommendations

  • Keep accurate inventory
  • Disclose military equipment usage
  • Reduce risk of reporting inaccuracies
  • Improve the public's ability to engage with and impact policies