Brian O’Connor, captain of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Olympic Division, held a press conference with Korean American media on February 19 and stated, “The LAPD does not engage in immigration enforcement.”
His statement comes amid heightened concerns following reports of large-scale immigration raids in Los Angeles and the Trump administration’s nationwide crackdown on undocumented immigrants with serious criminal records, making his remarks particularly noteworthy.
During the press conference held at the Olympic Division, O’Connor was asked whether the LAPD would comply with requests from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for assistance in immigration enforcement. He responded firmly, “No, we would not.”
He emphasized, “The LAPD is not an immigration enforcement agency. Our top priority is protecting all citizens, regardless of their immigration status,” adding, “We do not take actions based on immigration status.”
Regarding recent rumors about ICE conducting immigration raids in Los Angeles, O’Connor dismissed them as false. He stated, “We have neither received reports of ICE activities in our jurisdiction nor been asked to assist in any such operations.”
Crime and Safety Issues in Koreatown
The discussion also covered crime issues in Koreatown. O’Connor identified property crimes as the most serious offenses in the Olympic Division’s jurisdiction.
According to the division’s crime analysis data (COMSTAT), of the 469 crimes reported between January 19 and February 15, 374 cases (79.74%) were related to property crimes.
“The most common crimes in Koreatown are larceny-theft offenses, theft from vehicles, and residential burglaries,” he said, urging residents to actively report crimes to help with prevention efforts.
O’Connor also highlighted homelessness as a serious issue affecting Koreatown.
“Violent crimes are on the rise in Koreatown, and in many cases, alcohol and drugs are contributing factors,” he said. “Homeless individuals are particularly vulnerable to substance abuse.”
Concerns about recent hit-and-run incidents and other traffic accidents in Koreatown were also raised.
According to the LAPD and the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), more than three people have died and at least four others have been seriously injured in traffic accidents in Koreatown over the past three months.
In response to these concerns, patrol division commanding officer Captain Rachel Rodriguez provided an answer.
“We are fully aware of the recent increase in traffic accidents in Koreatown,” Rodriguez said. “We are working to improve traffic safety by increasing DUI checkpoints and traffic patrols.”
Strengthening Ties with the Korean-American Community
O’Connor reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the LAPD’s relationship with the Korean-American community.
“Beyond solving crimes, building strong ties with the community is essential,” he said. “We will utilize the ‘Blockwise’ survey program to better understand the Korean-American community’s top concerns regarding crime and social issues, allowing us to provide tailored public safety services.”
He added, “We are also organizing various events in collaboration with the community and encourage residents to actively participate.”
Meanwhile, the press conference was organized by the Olympic Booster Association (OBA). Captain Brian O’Connor, Captain Rachel Rodriguez, and Lieutenant Cynthia Robertson participated in a Q&A session with the Korean American media.
BY KYEONGJUN KIM [kim.kyeongjun1@koreadaily.com]
