Why do LA sheriff’s deputies stop and search so many bicyclists? Insiders cite culture and training
LOS ANGELES — For years, Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies have used an aggressive strategy on people riding bicycles: Stop them for minor violations and then search them for drugs or guns.
It has resulted in tens of thousands of cyclists being pulled over and searched in recent years, even when deputies have no reason to suspect serious wrongdoing. A Los Angeles Times investigation last month found it is not an effective policing tool: Fewer than 1 of every 10 cyclists searched were found carrying something illegal, and deputies very rarely discovered weapons. The analysis also found that Latinos are stopped more frequently than other groups.
After The Times’ investigation, the L.A. County Board of Supervisors ordered a review of the Sheriff’s Department’s bike stop practices, and the county’s inspector general launched an audit.
The Times’ findings lead to a question: Why do deputies persist in stopping and searching so
