Political Gumbo: Release of Admininstrative Review Closes Door on McClain Case

The police released the administrative review in the fatal officer-involved shooting of Anthony McClain case on Friday, just days after Pasadena Now reported the probe was tracking to be completed this month.

Locals know it, but here’s what happened.

McClain was riding in a car that was pulled over by police in August 2020. He was shot after he fled from police moments after he was asked to step out of the car.

Police say he had a gun, some locals say he didn’t.

Since Interim Chief Jason Clawson cleared the officers, City Manager Miguel Márquez cannot review the use force or impose discipline as a result of the use of force. 

That means all those calls to fire Steve Mermell were a waste of time as the decision all along was solely with the Police Chief.

And, as I have said a gazillion times, the City Council is not involved in the disciplinary process, due to the Council-Manager form of government established by Pasadena voters through the City Charter.

In other words, the City Council cannot fire police officers.

Barring the release of credible new information, emphasis on credible, this is over.

In other words, it’s over. 

Actually, it’s been over since the DA cleared the officers several months ago.

One officer will be disciplined for failing to turn on his body-worn camera. 

Undoubtedly, the same six or seven people will call the City Council at the next meeting and chide Councilmembers for taking no action against the officers.

Yes, despite the report they will call on the City Council to fire the police officers that shot Anthony McClain.

No shock there. 

Yes, far too many Black men are dying in police shootings. That has to change and no I don’t have the answer. 

At the same time, the propensity by so many young people to pick up a gun has to be dealt with.

All sides have work to do. 

Of course, Ricky Pickens and the gang interventionists are doing their part on the former, and the PPD continues to work on the latter.

It’s hard, thankless work for all involved. But it has to be done, because sadly the clock is ticking on the next controversial incident.

And then the finger pointing and division ramps up all over again, this time under the next Police Chief.