Los Angeles County Mayor Michael D. Antonovich delivered the following address welcoming the members of the County’s Citizens Commission on Jail Violence, appointed Tuesday by the Board of Supervisors:

“The members of the Board of Supervisors have each selected five outstanding members of the community to work together in discovering, investigating and finding solutions to the systemic problems plaguing Los Angeles County Jails, a quest that is significant, but not impossible.

“Where Don Quixote chased the impossible dream, this commission has the ability, support and commitment to make real the dream of a justice system that is fair and respected by all.

From left: Murray, McDonnell, Antonovich, Baird, Moreno, Tevrizian. Click to enlarge.

“Initiated by the Board of Supervisors, this formidable task has been set before a credible commission of highly qualified and respected community members recognized by the county, state and nation for their commitment and years of experience in public service.  Well-established in their professions, each brings a unique, yet compatible, perspective and strong record of success.

“With the support of our Board and the public, this commission has complete authority, including full access to confidential information, to review all alleged incidents and failures in the system and to hold all responsible — from the bottom to the top of the chain of command.

“We encourage the commissioners to look at any, and all, shortcomings and examine completely — not just policy — but personnel that may have been responsible for any violations.  The commission’s findings and recommendations for implementation will re-establish credibility and confidence in the Sheriff’s Department.

“And now, please let me introduce, in alphabetical order, the members of the Citizens’ Commission on Jail Violence.”

The members are retired federal judge Dickran M. Tevrizian, appointed by Antonovich; retired federal judge Lourdes G. Baird, appointed by Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky; Long Beach Police Chief  Jim McDonnell, appointed by Supervisor Don Knabe; Justice Carlos R. Moreno, appointed by Supervisor Gloria Molina; Dr. Cecil Murray, appointed by Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas.

Two additional members will be selected by the Commission from the  names submitted by the Board of Supervisors earlier this month.