On Saturday, I officially retired from the Culver City Police Dept. after having served the citizens of Culver City for 35 years.
When I started with the Police Dept. in 1976 the Downtown area of Culver City was a wasteland dotted with grungy bars and closed retail businesses. The Culver Hotel had seen better days. It was a multi-story flophouse that housed all manner of questionable characters. The old Red Line train station at Media Park was falling apart. It had no windows or doors, and it housed dozens of drug addicts.
Contrast this image with what we have now: A vibrant, beautiful, pedestrian-friendly Downtown teeming with people.
Throughout my 35 years, the men and women who have worn the uniform of a Culver City police officer have taken great pride in serving and protecting lives and property. These men and women work hard and try to do the right thing in enforcing the laws. We may not always get it right, but I can honestly say that 99 percent of the time the officers’ actions are well thought out and spot on.
A strong police department is essential if Culver City is going to continue to attract residents, visitors and shoppers. These people need to know they are in a safe city where a police officer will be at their side quickly if they need one.
I have worked with other police agencies throughout Los Angeles County, and I can honestly say the Culver City police officers who patrol our streets are as good, and very often better, than any you may find in other cities.
I am proud to leave the citizens of Culver City in such qualified hands under the leadership of Chief Don Pedersen.
Mr. Scheu may be contacted at redwood341@sbcglobal.net
