Officers with the Los Angeles Police Department have been accused of making racist and derogatory remarks on secretly recorded audio.

Chief Jim McDonnell Tuesday called details of a whistleblower's complaint alleging racism and discrimination by officers in the Los Angeles Police Department's Recruitment and Employment Division a "major setback" and pledged that appropriate action will be taken.

Police Chief Jim McDonnell promised the department was taking the matter seriously but cautioned city laws prohibit the outright firing of officers without due process.