Bratton reappointed

Noting that crime is at a record low, the Los Angeles Police Commission on Tuesday confirmed William Bratton for a second five-year term as police chief.

The 5-0 decision came after months of deliberation, stalled by a review of his response to the May Day incident at MacArthur Park. He earned high marks from the commission for his quick actions in taking responsibility, ordering inquiries and demoting command officers after that incident.

"Chief Bratton's response ... represented an important demonstration of enlightened, decisive leadership," Commission President John Mack said.

In appointing him to a second term heading the Los Angeles Police Department, Mack said Bratton should continue the work he has begun toward the "transformation of the LAPD culture and accountability that will ensure we do not have another MacArthur Park incident."

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who on the day after his election in 2005 went to Bratton and asked him to stay on the job, said he was pleased with the commission's decision.