Los Angeles Police Commissioner Matt Johnson has asked Inspector General Alex Bustamante to conduct a thorough review of the Los Angeles Police Department’s cadet youth program in the aftermath of an explosive scandal involving stolen police equipment and alleged statutory rape by an officer of the LAPD.
It all began with the arrest of three young Los Angeles police cadets who were caught driving two stolen police cars earlier this month. Police wondered how they’d gotten the cars in the first place. That question would soon lead them down a disturbing rabbit hole.
The investigation into the stolen vehicles quickly expanded to include stolen radios, Tasers, bulletproof vests, and another missing police vehicle. Four more cadets were arrested, bringing the total number to seven.
The investigation then took an even darker turn when it was discovered that Officer Robert Cain had allegedly been having sex with one of the cadets, aged 15. The officer was arrested Thursday by Police Chief Charlie Beck himself. Hundreds of guns were found in his home.
Bustamante has confirmed that a review of the cadet program will take place. Chief Beck has already ordered his own “top-to-bottom” investigation. City Councilman Mitch Englander has also called for a special audit.