LOS ANGELES (KNX) — Former Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Back announced Friday he had withdrawn his endorsement of District Attorney George Gascón.
"I based my support for the election of District Attorney George Gascón on the hope he would advance public safety in Los Angeles because of our close personal relationship over 30 years," Beck said in a statement. "After observing the negative effects of his policies and practices on public safety, I am compelled to rescind that endorsement."
Beck's reversal comes as the Association of Deputy District Attorneys union weighs whether to back renewed efforts to recall the reformist D.A. from office. Thirty cities in L.A. County have issued no-confidence votes in Gascón.
"It is disappointing that Chief Beck has changed his position, but we are respectful of his opinion and the many years of service that he has provided to the people of Los Angeles," Elise Moore, a campaign spokesperson for Gascón, told The Los Angeles Daily News after news of Beck's endorsement withdrawal broke.
ADDA members were scheduled to complete voting on Feb. 21 on whether to support the Gascón recall campaign.
