The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) banned the use of the Thin Blue Line Flag at its location, claiming that it represents "racist" views.
The flag is a pro-police symbol used to "back the blue" in support of law enforcement officers.
Los Angeles Police Department bans Thin Blue Line flag because it now allegedly symbolizes 'undemocratic, racist, and bigoted views' https://t.co/ahqFDonRxz
— TheBlaze (@theblaze) January 14, 2023
"LAPD Chief Michel Moore sent an email to department personnel on Friday announcing that the department was banning the Thin Blue Line symbol. The LAPD has barred the Thin Blue Line symbol from being displayed in public areas of police property," The Blaze reported.
"Moore defended the ban by saying the Thin Blue Line has been 'hijacked' by 'extremist' groups," he added.
LAPD bans Thin Blue Line flag over complaint it represents 'violent, extremist views' https://t.co/VoPyhUUNk4
— Fox News (@FoxNews) January 14, 2023
A union representing the police officers in Los Angeles County criticized the new policy.
"It is difficult to express the level of utter disgust and disappointment with Chief Moore's politically pandering directive to remove Thin Blue Line flags and memorials for fallen officers from all public areas within our police stations," the Board of directors for the Los Angeles Police Protective League wrote in a statement.
"This direction came as a result of complaints from anti-police, criminal apologists, and activists who hold too much sway over our city leaders and, unfortunately, our Chief," the statement added.
The police department's ban is not the only one. In Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, a township board also voted to ban the flag from its property.
The latest move could cause further problems for the California police department which has already experienced issues with growing crime and problems recruiting enough officers.
The anti-police sentiment within the police department appears to show a lack of appreciation for its own officers, caving instead to the progressive policies of the area.
Source: The Blaze
