UCLA Police Chief Resigns After Violent Protest

UCLA Police Chief John Thomas has resigned amid significant criticism regarding his department's response to a violent attack on pro-Palestinian activists encamped at the university last May. An investigation revealed that police failed to protect students effectively, allowing masked assailants to attack the encampment for three hours before intervening. Thomas's departure, which took effect on December 10, 2024, follows a chaotic decision-making process that was highlighted in an independent review, citing a lack of preparedness for handling major protests. The university has appointed Police Captain Scott Scheffler as interim chief while a permanent replacement is sought. Critics, including California Governor Gavin Newsom, condemned the delayed police response, calling it unacceptable. The incident has sparked broader discussions about campus safety and law enforcement's role amid heightened tensions surrounding the Israel-Gaza conflict.