Wounded Officer Needs Help

Los Angeles: During the Police Commission’s board meeting, Chief William Bratton recognized six police officers and two paramedics who kept Officer Kristina Ripatti alive last Saturday night after she was shot by an armed robber. The chief also addressed his concern for a disturbing trend of assaults against officers.

Last Saturday, June 3, 2006, Officer Ripatti, 33, was shot critically by James McNeal, who had just robbed a gas station at gunpoint. Her partner, Officer Joe Meyer, 35, immediately returned fire and killed McNeal. One bullet went through Ripatti’s arm, and the second one entered her chest near the armpit, above her ballistic vest.

Unfortunately, as of June 6, Officer Ripatti is showing signs of being paralyzed from the chest down and she is still in critical but stable condition.

The Kristi Ripatti Trustee Donation Account has been established at the Los Angeles Police Federal Credit Union (LAPFCU). Persons who would like to make a donation can make one payable to Kristi Ripatti or her husband Tim Pearce and mail to LAPFCU, 16150 Sherman Way, Van Nuys, CA 91410.

For further information contact Sergeant Frank Preciado, Southwest Division, at 213-485-2580.