LAPD chief drops terrifying truth bomb about LA Olympics security
LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell warned that the department lacks sufficient personnel and dedicated funding to ensure security for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, raising concerns about being overextended when millions visit the city. He emphasized that existing funds are shared among multiple agencies and largely restricted to overtime pay, not direct law enforcement costs. The warning came during a city budget hearing amid broader debates over federal involvement and local resource allocation for the Games.
- ▪LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell stated there is zero dedicated funding for police security for the 2028 Olympics beyond a shared budget for multiple agencies.
- ▪The department anticipates logging nearly 1.4 million overtime hours this year, contributing to a projected $16.5 million deficit.
- ▪Approximately 6,700 officers and an additional 700–800 patrol vehicles will be needed for Olympic security, but current equipment and staffing levels are not fully funded.
- ▪Olympic organizers claim federal authorities will play a major role due to the Games' designation as a National Special Security Event, but LAPD officials dispute the extent of that support.
- ▪City Council members expressed frustration over conflicting information about funding responsibilities and the necessity of police presence during the Olympics.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Metro breaking LAPD chief drops terrifying truth bomb about LA Olympics security By Zain Khan and Jamie Paige Published April 29, 2026, 6:50 p.m. ET Los Angeles does not have enough cops or the funding to properly secure the city for the Olympic Games, the head of the LAPD has warned. Chief Jim McDonnell said he fears the department could be stretched past its limits when millions flock to LA for the 2028 blockbuster. He pointed out there was “zero” specific fundings for his team, aside from the pooled budget shared by cops, the fire department and federal agents. His startling warning during a City Council Budget and Finance Committee hearing at City Hall on Wednesday as lawmakers scrutinize Mayor Karen Bass’s plans for the city.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at California Post.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from California Post
