The LAPD Attack on Ted Rall

The LAPD Attack on Ted Rall
By Bob Maschi

Left-wing editorial cartoonist Ted Rall is under attack. You’ve probably seen Rall’s work. Intentionally crowded, extreme and almost always right on target. He attacks power and hypocrisy, both Democrats and Republicans and anyone else who deserves it while defending those who have little voice in today’s America.

But about a week ago, Rall lost his job at the Los Angeles Times (LA Times). From what I gather, Rall had written an editorial accusing the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) of abusing him for the treasonous crime of jaywalking, back in 2001.

Well, the LAPD shot back with a recording of the event (yes, it’s hard to believe that an organization so poor at protecting the public could be so efficient with a decade plus old recording). The recording showed that Rall’s encounter with the police was much like polite cockpit banter. For misstating the truth, Rall was quickly fired from his position at the LA Times.

Ouch…

But what’s coming out now is that the recording was seemingly manipulated by the police, both at the time of that recording and after Rall’s summary of the event appeared in the news. Jaywalker Rall (I hope that nickname don’t stick too long), was, apparently, roughed up and handcuffed while bystanders protested his treatment for such a minor infraction.

I’m guessing, only guessing, that now Rall is seeking apologies from the LA Times and the LAPD, reinstatement of his position at the LA Times and a good lawyer.

Rall is updating this story on his Facebook page and on his website:
http://rall.com/
https://www.facebook.com/tedrall?fref=ts