COSTA MESA — In a letter sent to Police Department employees Friday, retired Costa Mesa Police Capt. Ron Smith remorsefully accepted responsibility for being put on leave by the city.
"I now recognize how my inattention and unexcused absence from duty placed a heavier burden on many of you and adversely affected my ability to serve," Smith, a 32-year veteran wrote in a letter obtained by the Daily Pilot.
"I do not have the words to express to you my remorse for anything I have done to lose the trust and confidence you once had in me. As I refocus my life and move forward, I sincerely wish the best to each of you."