Chief's Message

Domestic Violence

The month of October was dedicated to Domestic Violence Awareness Month, focusing on efforts to end family violence. The recent conversations and the call for victims to come forward and report abuse has reached a national level, but has been a Department imperative for many years. Since 1998, each year in partnership with the Los Angeles City Domestic Violence Task Force, we honor our Department personnel for Outstanding Contributions and Services to Domestic Violence Victims. On October 10th, we recognized this year's recipients, comprised of 41 police officers and detectives representing each bureau and Domestic Violence Response Teams (DART). They are truly deserving of this award, and I thank them for their passion to make a difference...one life, one family and one community at a time.

The recent highly publicized national incidents and the tragedies that have personally affected us close to home are certainly a reminder to us all, that we still have much to do in terms of education, prevention, and enforcement. Domestic Violence is a crime that continues when people decide to remain silent. It is a crime that affects so many and in so many different ways.

As of now 13 geographical Areas are using the DART concept, but this is not enough. We recognize we cannot do this alone. I am committed to working with our City Attorney and with the Mayor's Office to expand the DART concept to every geographical Area. Our efforts continue beyond the month of October, and all year long we work towards raising awareness to the complex issues of domestic violence. We strive to strengthen, connect and unite the community to end domestic violence.

Technology Update

Preparations for Digital In-Car Video (DICV) in Operations-Central Bureau continue and great progress has been made since my last update. Each Area police station is undergoing final systems testing and all black & white field units are installed with the new DICV equipment. Officers at each of the Central Bureau Areas will receive training and can begin utilizing the in-car video equipment as part of their normal duty assignment.

In addition, the Department has added two electric motorcycles to our off-road enforcement detail and we are looking forward to adding two more electric motorcycles to augment our standard motorcycle deployment. Each of these electric motorcycles show promise for where alternative energy vehicles are headed, and as an organization, we will continue to test and track these developments to remain at the forefront.

Annual Holiday Party

I want to thank the Los Angeles Police Foundation for their generous support in strengthening our community outreach and youth programs. The Foundation made possible for many of you to have access to equipment that saves lives and help keep you and your partner safe. I cannot begin to thank them enough for all they do and their contributions to elevate this world class organization. One of several prestigious events hosted by our Los Angeles Police Foundation is the LAPD Annual Holiday Party, to be held on Saturday, November 22, 2014, at The L.A. Hotel Downtown, formerly known as the LA Downtown Marriott Hotel. Admission is $50 per guest. This event will feature a salsa room, lounge room with DJ and new for this year a country western room. Guests will receive a complimentary portrait, gift bags, raffles and prizes. I hope you can join me in celebrating the holiday season together.

LAPD Supports and Salutes Our Veterans

The LAPD has a long and proud history of supporting the National Guard and Armed Forces Reserve. Recruitment Division has a full time Military Recruiter to ensure some of the Nation’s finest armed forces members become LAPD officers. The Department shows its commitment to support our military veterans by having a robust Military Liaison Program and a Military Recruiting Program. The Department values, treasures, and welcomes veterans of all branches and acknowledge the sacrifices and skills they provide to the Department.

The Department employs approximately 2,458 veterans (2,274, sworn and 184 civilian personnel). Furthermore, of our veterans, 278 are still serving in the Guard or Reserve. The Department has had as many as 225 of its members recalled to active duty at one time or another. Since the beginning of the war against terrorism, many members continue to be activated in support of contingency operations. Currently, the Department has 12 members deployed in support of a contingency operation but the numbers are increasing as we continue to engage in multiple military operations around the world. This Veteran's Day please keep these members close at heart and remember them throughout this holiday season, praying for a safe return to their loved ones. Honor them by the good work you do while serving our City, as they serve our great Nation.

Time to Remember and Celebrat:

On November 20, 2014, at 0900 hours, at the Police Headquarters Facility, the Department will celebrate the 239th Birthday of the United States Marine Corps. In doing so, we will also pay a special tribute to two of our finest Police Officers and United States Marines that were previously killed in Afghanistan while serving our great nation, PIII+I Robert J. Cottle and PII Joshua J. Cullins. Semper Fi.

Chief Beck with the 3rd Air and Naval Gunfire Liaison Company Honor Guard 

Lastly, as we enter the holiday season and reflect on our personal lives, please keep in mind our brothers and sisters in need. Some may be personal friends, partners or even strangers that may need a friend, a simple or kind gesture to get through tough times. Random acts of kindness are contagious, one act at a time.

Be well and stay safe out there,

Charlie.