The Los Angeles Police Chief, Michel Moore, has made an announcement regarding the disciplinary action taken against four members of the department’s bomb squad for their involvement in a failed detonation of illegal fireworks in a South Los Angeles neighborhood two years ago. Additionally, an internal investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department has led to the implementation of new protocols for the bomb squad to prevent similar incidents in the future, as stated by Moore.
The incident in question occurred on June 30, 2021, when a controlled detonation on East 27th Street near San Pedro Street resulted in 17 residents and first responders being hospitalized, a bomb squad truck being destroyed, and 22 residences, 13 businesses, and 37 vehicles being damaged.
In a statement made on Saturday, Moore said, “Work to stabilize and repair 27th Street began immediately following the 2021 fireworks disposal explosion. While our community efforts were underway, the Department conducted a thorough internal review and made significant improvements. We conducted a comprehensive investigation of the personnel involved in the incident and thoroughly examined the practices and protocols of the Bomb Squad. As a result, disciplinary action was taken against four Bomb Squad personnel. Furthermore, new protocols have been implemented to prevent similar events in the future and ensure the safety of both community members and officers.”
Moore further added, “Although we cannot undo the impact this event had on the neighborhood, we remain dedicated to assisting the affected residents and making amends.” As part of this effort, the commanding officers of the Newton station within the department hold weekly meetings with the 27th Street Long Term Recovery Group.
In 2022, the Department of Housing reported that 23 individuals from six households had been relocated to permanent housing, while eight more households were ready to relocate and were actively searching for affordable units. The city has allocated over $3 million to support and assist the residents affected by the explosion.
