Statement: The Los Angeles LGBT Center Demands Accountability from LAPD Following the Tragic Killing of Linda Becerra Moran
LOS ANGELES, CA, MARCH 12, 2025—Following news of the LAPD shooting that killed Linda Becerra Moran, a trans woman from Ecuador, the Los Angeles LGBT Center Chief Impact Officer, Terra Russell-Slavin, issued the following statement:
“The Los Angeles LGBT Center community is in mourning and outraged over the tragic murder of Linda Becerra Moran, at the hands of the Los Angeles Police Department. This devastating loss is a stark reminder of the violence transgender individuals—especially trans women of color—face in an increasingly hostile political climate. The circumstances surrounding Linda’s death demand immediate action, accountability, and systemic change from our city’s leadership.
Linda was a vital member of our community, navigating a system that too often neglects and endangers transgender people. She sought resources, support, and safety—only to be met with the same systemic failures that costs lives. Her death is not an isolated tragedy but part of a harrowing pattern of excessive and unjustified force used against marginalized individuals. The silence from authorities, the bureaucratic delays, and the abhorrent lack of accountability in cases like hers are not just failures—they are acts of complicity. This must end now.
We call on the Los Angeles Police Commission and the Inspector General to conduct a full, transparent, and expedited independent investigation. While this process is underway, Officer Jacob Sanchez of the Foothill Division should be placed on immediate administrative leave. The investigation must not only determine his fitness for duty but also assess whether criminal charges should be filed for excessive use of force. Additionally, the actions of every officer involved—especially the on-site supervisor—must be thoroughly examined. Calling for help should never result in death at the hands of those sworn to protect us. Failing to hold officers accountable only perpetuates a culture of impunity and state-sanctioned violence—something our community refuses to accept.
Across the country, and even at the highest levels of government, transgender people are under attack, facing escalating violence fueled by anti-trans policies and rhetoric. Linda’s tragic murder is a heartbreaking testament to this crisis. Now more than ever, LGBTQ+ Angelenos need bold leadership that defends the rights and dignity of all residents, especially those most vulnerable to systemic violence.
The Center urges city leaders and LAPD officials to take swift action in ensuring justice for Linda and to commit to lasting changes that will prevent further tragedies. We demand a meeting with LAPD leadership– and we expect transparency, accountability, and a commitment to meaningful change. Anything less is a betrayal of the values our city claims to uphold.”
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About the Los Angeles LGBT Center
Since 1969 the Los Angeles LGBT Center has cared for, championed, and celebrated LGBT individuals and families in Los Angeles and beyond. Today the Center’s nearly 800 employees provide services for more LGBT people than any other organization in the world, offering programs, services, and global advocacy that span four broad categories: Health, Social Services and Housing, Culture and Education, Leadership and Advocacy. We are an unstoppable force in the fight against bigotry and the struggle to build a better world; a world in which LGBT people thrive as healthy, equal, and complete members of society. Learn more at lalgbtcenter.org