New Police Officer Fulfills Life Long Dream

March 27, 2009 – It was more than just a graduation ceremony for one of the LAPD’s newest officers.  It was the fulfillment of a life-long dream.  Twenty-One year old Police Officer Timothy Pecina of Granada Hills became the first individual to graduate from the Monroe Police Academy Magnet High School, work as a Community Police Aide and graduate from the Los Angeles Police Academy.

“I have wanted to be a police officer for as long as I can remember,” said Officer Pecina.

Officer Pecina attended James Monroe High School Police Academy Magnet for four years, earning his high school diploma.  After graduating, he was hired as a Community Police Aide with the Los Angeles Police Department where he worked for three years.  Once old enough to apply to become a Los Angeles Police Officer, he entered the academy in the class of 10-08, earning his newly minted badge which was given to him at graduation.

Officer Pecina’s short term goal is simple, “I am just working on getting through probation,” he said with a smile.  His first assignment will be working Central Division patrol.  He hopes to promote through the ranks and do a little bit of everything during his career with the Department.

Formed in 1996, the Police Academy Magnet school at James Monroe High involves students in a stimulating and challenging array of courses and hands-on activities.  The curriculum is designed to instill interest and knowledge in law enforcement and help students understand and become active in community and national issues.

The Community Police Aide program is a part-time or full-time paid position for individuals who are interested in law enforcement but lack the age requirement to enter into the police academy.  This program provides invaluable on-the-job training that prepares individuals for a career with the Los Angeles Police Department.

Comments

[Dominika (isis89)]

My congratulations :D

[Another Wise Investment]

One officer produced in 13 years of the Magnate program and this is deemed a success? Are you serious?

Is it any wonder this City is a train wreck?

Congrats to Officer Pecina. It is a fabulous accomplishment. But to invest all that many in a program that has ultimately produced ONE copper seems like a poor return.

[Celia Harrow]

Thats my brother!

[george]

Good Work Officer Pecina. You have achieved the goals of many people that failed. I hope you use don't use prejudice on the job remember your civilian status and respect your suspects. Use your officer saftey of course. GOOD JOD SIR.....I was in Naval JROTC in high school at El Camino Real. I sereved my country for 12 years working as a Shore patrol also know as MP. I learned a lot from the formal training at the High school. I personal saved three lives during my tour and I hope you the best SIr. I wish you would go back to your rots one day and speak to your peers or under students and guide them into the proffions of LAW INFORCEMENT.