My LAPD Journey: From Street Cop to Commander

by Keith Bushey

This book describes the LAPD, decade by decade (mid-1960s - mid-1990s) as it really was. Among the contents, all in the form of easily read vignettes, are incidents that are funny, sad, tragic, and downright unbelievable - but every word 100% accurate. For those interested in the historic transition of the LAPD of yesteryear, from situations that by today's standards are clearly wrong and inappropriate, to the type of policing that characterizes today's law enforcement profession, THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU! The author is fond of saying that the City of Los Angeles can be violent, deadly and disfunctional, and its also pretty tough once you leave police headquarters! In addition to crime and other actions on the streets, the internal politics and behaviors -- some pretty troubling -- are also discussed. Throughout the entire book however, two things remain clear; that the author loves the men and women of the Los Angeles Police Department and remains adamant that the employees of yesteryear, just like the employees of today, were deeply committed to doing a great job in making the wonderful City of Los Angeles a great place to live, work and visit! The author says that, "his greatest regret is not being able to "do it all over again!" When you read the book, you will understand why....

480 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 20, 2015

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book by one of my life heroes, retired USMC Colonel and LAPD Commander Keith Bushey. His stories about the LAPD are interesting and entertaining for someone who loves Los Angeles history. Colonel Bushey’s own story of his rise from a 17 year old high school dropout to the respected police and Marine Corps leader, now lecturing multiple groups on the topic, is inspiring.