Long Beach Police Chief Jim McDonnell gains new heavy hitting support

LASD sheriff candidate and current Long Beach Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell is moving full speed ahead with his campaign, and law enforcement groups from throughout the state are taking notice.

Not only has he picked up the support of the current and former Los Angeles District Attorneys, this week he's racked up endorsements from the California Police Chief's Association.

Organization president and Covina police Chief Kim Raney describes him as being well respected in the law enforcement field and feels he's the right person for the job.

Not only did he serve as the chief of staff at the Los Angeles Police Department for a number of years, he's also served as the police chief for another major law enforcement agency,  McDonnell has more than 30 years of experience in this field.

Raney reportedly feels he's more than qualified to lead the LASD.

Candidates chime in on the field deputy program

Last week, Interim Sheriff John Scott cut the civilian field deputy program due to questions as to whether the half-million dollar annual cost was of any benefit to taxpayers.

But that's not to say the program is done with forever.  Once a new sheriff is elected, it will be up to them to decide if the money is worth spending.

The program was initiated by now-retired LASD Sheriff Lee Baca, who appointed four civilians to work on community outreach.  Each was provided with a county car and was paid more than $100,00 annually.

One of the field deputies, Michael Yamaki, was compensated more than $170,000 per year.

In terms of how the candidates view the now-suspended program, there seems to be a divide.   Former Undersheriff Paul Tanaka feels there's definitely a value.

LBPD Chief McDonnell and Assistant LASD Sheriff Jim Hellmold have said they'd like to see the program fully reviewed- but has not called for it being eliminated.

The three other candidates, retired LASD commander Bob Olmsted, Assistant Sheriff Todd Rogers and retired lieutenant Patrick Gomez say they'd like to see the program go and feel the money could be better spent.