Investigation launched after LAPD officers circulate George Floyd 'Valentine'
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 16, 2020: Photograph shows the front entrance to LAPD Headquarters on 1st St. in downtown Los Angeles. (Mel Melcon / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles Police Department launched an internal investigation after an officer reported that a photo of George Floyd with the words "You take my breath away" in a Valentine-like format was circulated among officers.
Police Chief Michel Moore said Saturday that investigators will try to determine how the image may have come into the workplace and who may have been involved. Moore said the officer who made the complaint will be interviewed Monday.
"Our investigation is to determine the accuracy of the allegations while also reinforcing our zero tolerance for anything with racist views," the chief said.
Floyd, a Black man, was killed by Minneapolis police last May after one officer pressed a knee on his neck as Floyd repeatedly said, "I can’t breathe." The killing spurred protests across the country, including in Los Angeles.
If the probe confirms LAPD officers were circulating the image, "people will find my wrath," Moore said.
Moore also confirmed the department is investigating two anonymous Instagram accounts reportedly linked to department personnel — including one called the "Blue Line Mafia."