Here’s what El Monte Council members are saying about the kicking cop issue, according to a story written by Tania Chatila.

El Monte City Councilwoman Emily Ishigaki said it was too early to comment on the investigation, but said Fierro was a “very talented officer.”

City Councilman Juventino “J” Gomez said he was worried about the bad press.

“We are always concerned when El Monte is in the headlines and it may not be favorable,” he said. “We have a great Police Department.”

Ishigaki said officers might be stressed from recent budget cuts that reduced their ranks.

State Sen. Gloria Romero, D-Los Angeles, said stress is no excuse.

“If that were the case, we would allow every teacher, nurse, and firefighter in the state to suddenly abuse authority under the law,” said Romero, whose Senate district includes El Monte.