[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1992, Book I)]
[April 30, 1992]
[Page 669]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Remarks on Civil Disturbances in Los Angeles, California

April 30, 1992
    A tragic series of events have occurred in Los Angeles that include 
frustration over a verdict, the wanton destruction of property, and the 
senseless death of several citizens in the last few hours. I urge all 
Americans to approach this situation with calm, with tolerance, and with 
the respect for the rights of all individuals under the Constitution.
    The United States Department of Justice will continue its criminal 
investigation of the police violence case in Los Angeles to ensure that 
the civil rights laws of our Nation are fully and equally applied. The 
Department of Justice has been monitoring this case since its inception, 
and as is customary in these kinds of situations, the Justice Department 
moved last night to accelerate the investigation that it started several 
months ago.
    I have just met with the Attorney General of the United States to 
consider the Federal Government's legal course at this point and to 
review any other forms of assistance that we should provide the State of 
California and the city of Los Angeles. I also discussed these matters 
this morning with Governor Wilson and Mayor Tom Bradley and with other 
senior members of my administration. We are concerned about any question 
of excessive police violence, and we are equally concerned about 
excessive public violence.
    The murder and destruction in the streets of Los Angeles last night 
and today must be stopped. Lootings, beatings, and random violence 
against innocent victims must be condemned. Society cannot tolerate this 
kind of behavior.
    There are some principles of law and of behavior that should be 
repeated in these circumstances. First, we must maintain a respect for 
our legal system and a demand for law and order. Second, we have a right 
to expect a police force that protects our citizens and behaves in a 
responsible manner. Third, in the American conscience there is no room 
for bigotry and racism. And fourth, we have responsibilities as citizens 
of this democracy.
    I want everyone to know that the Federal Government will continue to 
pursue its legal responsibilities in this case.
    Thank you very much.

                    Note: The President spoke at 12:05 p.m. in the 
                        Briefing Room at the White House.