LAPD Chief to be Deposed in Ezell Ford Shooting Lawsuit

The Los Angeles police chief must answer questions about a high-profile officer-involved shooting of a black man last year, a federal judge ruled Monday, citing contradictions between the chief's statements and a commission's finding that the shooting wasn't justified.

Police Chief Charlie Beck will have to take questions, in a formal deposition, from the attorney for the family of 25-year-old Ezell Ford, who was killed by police in August. Ford's parents are suing the city, the department and the officers involved. The trial is set for November.

Magistrate Judge Margaret Nagle found Ford's shooting was conspicuous enough that Beck should speak to contradictory findings about whether it was within policy, SCPR reports.

Last month, the Los Angeles Police Commission found that officers had no reason to stop and question Ford, and that a violation of department policy led to an altercation that ended withFord's death. Beck has said the officers in the shooting acted appropriately.

Ezell Ford Shooting Coverage