Police Chief Mounts Defense Against Discrimination Allegations​

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – The Beverly Hills Police Chief released a video statement last week defending herself and the department against allegations of discrimination. Police Chief Sandra Spagnoli said she "thinks it's time to set the record straight."

"As the men and women of our Police Department put their lives on the line each and every day, it is very difficult to standby and listen to the egregious statements and misrepresentations that have been made," Spagnoli said. "When I was hired in 2016, the City Council wanted a culture change in the Police Department, most notably to address lack of accountability, low staffing and low morale."

The police chief has been accused of making discriminatory remarks to coworkers. Early last year, numerous lawsuits were filed against her for "insensitive" comments towards employees. Spagnoli faces several lawsuits filed by employees alleging discrimination and retaliation.

In one of at least seven pending cases, Chief Sandra Spagnoli was accused of making insensitive remarks about a police captain's religion. In another, the chief was accused of offending two police lieutenants and a civilian communications supervisor, it was reported.

Last month, a former BHPD captain settled his lawsuit against the city for $2.3 million after accusing the department of discriminating against him because of his age and Jewish religion. Former captain Bradley Gage said at a news conference that he had high hopes when the city hired Spagnoli, but the remarks she allegedly made about Jews, Catholics and lesbians gave him pause.

Spagnoli has served as the Beverly Hills Police Chief since 2016. Before Beverly Hills, she worked in San Leandro, Benicia and San Carlos in Northern California.

Watch Police Chief Spagnoli's video statement below:

Message from Beverly Hills Police Chief Sandra Spagnoli from Beverly Hills Television on Vimeo.

Related Coverage:

• Former BHPD Captain Settles Discrimination Suit For $2.3 Million
• Beverly Hills Police Chief Faces Numerous Lawsuits
• New Lawsuits Filed Against Beverly Hills Police Chief
• Beverly Hills Names New Chief of Police

Photo courtesy of the City of Beverly Hills