Mr. Gates discussed the controversy surrounding recent events in Los Angeles, including riots and police brutality, on a radio show. He talked about the indictment of police officers involved in the beating of Los Angeles citizen Rodney King, gave his opinions on the politics of the issue, and answered questions from listeners. Mr. Gates was beginning a three day stint as a guest host on a radio talk show. This was Mr. Gates’s first public appearance since he retired last month after fourteen years as chief of the Los Angeles Police Department.