Biography: Dave Gascon was the Los Angeles Police Department commander in charge of media relations during the O.J Simpson trial. Assistant Chief of Police David J. Gascon retired from the Los Angeles Police Department on November 2, 2002, after an outstanding 31-year career. Assistant Chief Gascon was appointed to the Department on March 22, 1971. During his career, Assistant Chief Gascon served in a variety of assignments throughout the City.