LA sheriff pledges to improve state of jail system

"I believe in the principle of dignity for all, including those who are incarcerated," Baca said in the statement. "The deputies and staff of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department are entrusted and obligated to serve the constitutionally-bound civil rights of all, and to protect and enhance everyone's human potential."

Baca also addressed the allegations by the ACLU of misconduct and excessive force, including claims that his sprawling jail system fosters a culture of fear, deputy brutality and corruption. The group's complaints helped lead to the FBI investigation.

"I take these allegations very seriously. While safety and security for staff and inmates are paramount, we have to treat the inmates as our community, and we want it to be the best community it can be."

The ACLU has called for the resignation of Baca, the four-term sheriff who oversees the nation's busiest jail system and its 15,000 inmates. The group said he and his top commanders are indifferent to claims from inmates and jail visitors that deputies routinely assault inmates.