LASD Captain Sues Over Tattoo Allegedly Costing Promotion

Tattoo Controversy and Promotion Denial

• 📌 Captain Ben Torres of the LA County Sheriff's Department claims an old ankle tattoo, obtained decades ago, has cost him a promotion to commander.
• 💡 Torres asserts the tattoo was acquired on his own time and money, is not visible on duty, and is not associated with any illegal or gang activity.
• 💔 He views the tattoo as a tribute to friends and fellow deputies who have died, stating he would not remove it as they didn't have the option.

Legal and Departmental Perspectives

• ⚖️ Captain Torres is suing LA County and Sheriff Robert Luna, with his attorney arguing the case hinges on First Amendment rights.
• 🏛️ The lawsuit contends that while the sheriff aimed to eradicate deputy gangs, the policy requires more than just a tattoo; it needs evidence of criminal misconduct or constitutional rights violations.
• 📢 The LA County Sheriff's Department stated they have implemented a revised promotional process for captains and above to address department-related tattoos, setting clear expectations for all personnel.

Allegations of Deputy Gangs and Trauma Bonding

• 💬 Torres denies any involvement with or knowledge of deputy gangs within the department, stating he has never met anyone in a gang during his 30 years of service.
• 🤝 He describes the tattoo as a "station tattoo," similar to military unit tattoos, symbolizing service and camaraderie among colleagues who have experienced significant events together.
• 🔍 Despite ongoing reports of deputy gangs, no one has been indicted or arrested for such activities, according to the transcript.

Upcoming Trial

• 🗓️ Captain Torres's lawsuit is scheduled to go to trial in March.