The Thin Blue Line: Bratton Returns as a Dodger

The former head of the LAPD is back in town in blue -- Dodger blue

Former Los Angeles police chief William J. Bratton has been asked to provide a long-term security blueprint for the Dodgers.

The team hired the ex-top cop as a consultant in the wake of a beating that left a San Francisco Giants fan in a comatose state. Bryan Stow, 42, remains in critical condition after being assaulted in the Dodger parking lot on Opening Day.

"Our report will not focus on that incident," Bratton said. "That's a criminal matter. Our focus will be on issues relative to security at the stadium -- security officers, police, cameras, lighting, traditional security survey."

Bratton said he dealt extensively with the Dodgers when he was chief of the LAPD. The former police chief said his team will "take a full and comprehensive look at security procedures and processes, and make recommendations based on (the) findings."

"Bill Bratton is widely credited with spearheading modern community policing in America," said Dodgers owner Frank McCourt. "There is no one better to lead a top-to-bottom review of our current practices and make recommendations to be implemented now and into the future."

Bratton and his team at Kroll will begin consulting immediately, according to the Dodgers. He said the LAPD has already submitted a list of suggestions to the organization in preparation for next Thursday's game at Dodger Stadium.

That game is a 7:10 p.m. start against the St. Louis Cardinals.

"I am pleased to have the opportunity to return to Los Angeles to consult with the Dodger organization on the security posture at Dodger Stadium," said Bratton.

On Oct. 31, 2009, Bratton resigned his position as chief to become chairman of Altegrity Risk International in New York.

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