LAPD Blog

Chief's Message

Saluting our LAPD employees serving in the Armed Forces

 

Keep in your prayers the nine Los Angeles Police Department employees who serve in uniform around the world, in harm’s way, far from home. We thank them and their families for their continued sacrifices on our behalf and pray for their safe return.

Det II Donald Blue, Serial No. 30460, 77th		U.S. Army, Lieutenant Colonel
PO II Robert Casey, Serial No. 34762, West LA		U.S. Air Force, Master Sergeant
PO II Haney Colt, Serial No. 41294, 77th		U.S. Army, Sergeant
PSR I Tonya Davis, Serial No. N2259, SSD		U.S. Army, Sergeant First Class
PO III Richard Larson, Serial No. 33404, SOE		U.S. Army, Sergeant
PO II David Park, Serial No. 37979, Olympic		U.S. Army, Sergeant First Class
PO III Thomas Ralph, Serial No. 35194 Metro		U.S. Army, Chief Warrant Officer II
Det I Timothy Stack, Serial No. 34892, Wilshire		U.S. Air Force, Master Sergeant
Det I Craig Taylor, Serial No. 27087, MCD		U.S. Army, Sergeant First Class

There is more than one way to be a Hero

Many LAPD officers and city employees are foster parents or have adopted children. In January, the LAPD in conjunction with the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) will host an informational lunch time presentation open to all City employees who are interested in obtaining information on the first step to become a foster parent or adoption. If you have thoughts about adopting or becoming a foster parent, I invite you to attend. There will be a question and answer panel and a presentation by DCFS explaining the adoption process of children in Los Angeles county and surrounding areas. We believe that providing a stable nurturing environment for L.A.'s kids will help reduce gang involvement, juvenile crime and delinquency, while providing an increase in school attendance and graduation.

LAPD Badges For Bandages

I want to thank everyone who took the time and effort to donate band aids to this great campaign. This was our first collective effort as a Department in collecting and donating band aids for Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles and it was a huge success. With the help of the William H. Parker Foundation, customized LAPD band aides were donated to kick start the campaign. These fun band aids and your generosity will help put a smile on a child’s face and ease their hardship as they are dealing with ongoing cancer treatments. Special thanks to Officer Grant Hanson, North Hollywood Area, his son Max, Lieutenant Billy Brockway, Central Area, and his daughter Parker, for sharing their personal stories throughout this campaign. Max and Parker are true heroes as are their fathers for leading the charge on making a difference and raising awareness for childhood cancer.

Happy Holidays!

As we near the end of year for 2014, please take time to reflect on what matters most to you and make a renewed commitment to make a difference. Each and every one of you is an important part of this organization and I appreciate the great work you do. Together, you have made this Department what it is and what it will become for those to follow. I look forward to the opportunities created by the challenges the New Year will bring.

From my family to yours, I wish you a safe, healthy and joyous holiday season.

Charlie

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.

Chief's Message

I hope this message finds you well. Sadly, I begin this message in an all too familiar fashion…recognizing the death of a fallen brother taken from us too soon. On September 6, 2014, we were visited by tragedy yet again causing us to mourn the loss of Police II Erick Alcaraz, Serial No. 41284. Erick was killed in an off duty traffic collision in the city of Torrance, leaving behind his mother and father. Erick completed his probationary assignment at Southwest Area and wheeled to West Los Angeles Area, set to begin DP#10, September 7, 2014. His life was tragically cut short before he could begin patrolling the streets of WLA. At only 24 years of age, Erick had already been in uniform most of his adult life - first in the United States Marine Corps and then as a Los Angeles Police Officer. He served our Country, our Department and the City of Los Angeles with honor. Erick had a promising career and was known as solid cop, a good friend and a very respectful man. He was taken from us too soon, but we will never forget Erick. I ask that we keep his loved ones, classmates and his LAPD family in your thoughts and prayers.

Civilian Appreciation Month

During the month of October, we celebrate and honor our 3,000 talented civilian colleagues who keep the LAPD operating each and every day. Our civilian personnel bring spirit and dedication to the job and are an integral part of the LAPD. Civilians add value to our Department’s character. I truly appreciate their commitment to our Department’s core values and getting the job done. Their jobs are vital to the day-to-day functions of the Department and to the City of Los Angeles.

In my nearly 40 years as a member of the LAPD, I am honored to have worked with an outstanding group of dedicated and hard working professionals. At every assignment, I have always depended on the skills and talent of our civilian staff. It has become an annual tradition for the sworn members of the Department to contribute to, plan, and host appreciation lunches for our civilian colleagues. This is a great way to say thank you for all they do and encourages a positive relationship between sworn and civilian employees. Events will be held throughout the month at our Area stations.

Command staff and I understand the trials and hardships civilians have experienced over the past few years, and we will never forget their sacrifices. It is very important we recognize that our civilian brothers and sisters have a wealth of institutional knowledge. Please take time from your day to offer your personal appreciation to the civilian employees at your station or office for their work and what they do. It is because of each and every one of you and the exceptional work you do every day that makes this Department the finest police agency in the world. Please accept my most sincere “thank you” and know how proud I am of you.

LAPD Has Big Plans for Little Libraries

Through the hard work and dedication of our officers and in partnership with A Chance for Children Foundation, our Department and has opened 14 Little Free Libraries inside of our LAPD stations. Painted boxes filled with books are popping up in LAPD stations with signs that read, “Take a Book, Leave a Book." These “Little Free Libraries” are helping to promote literacy while fostering positive interaction between our youth and police officers.

As I visit our stations throughout the City, I see how these unconventional libraries have become a safe gathering place for kids of all ages. Our Cadets are serving as stewards of the libraries to help teach important life skills, ownership of a project, and the importance of community. This is a tremendous and creative outreach effort and could not be done without the support and book donations from officers and the community. I would like to thank our officers and Cadets for their commitment to this project and I look forward to seeing Little Free Libraries in every station throughout the City.

Officer First Aid Kits ~ Tourniquets

Recently, many of you have inquired about how to receive training on the use of tourniquets and its distribution. We are fortunate to have received funding from the Los Angeles Police Foundation for 8,000 new Officer First Aid Kits (OFAKs). The tourniquets are part of the new kits and are not being issued as a stand-alone item.

We have a training procedure in place that must be completed before you will be issued an OFAKS. To facilitate the training there are at least 70 Training Coordinators who have completed a two-day Train-the-Trainer course and who can certify you with a skills test once you complete the on-line POST course. Currently, there are 2600 OFAKs already in the field and an additional 380 students certified to carry an OFAK who have not yet received their kits. We are awaiting delivery of the next batch of OFAKs. These officers will receive their kits from their Training Coordinators as soon as they arrive. These kits are NOT held in storage and once we receive the next shipment they will be distributed as quickly as possible.

We know these kits can and have saved lives. Recent incidents where trained officers applied the tourniquet proved their value and most likely saved an officer's life. I cannot express how extremely fortunate we are to have these lifesaving kits. Knowing how valuable these Officer First Aid Kits are, please take advantage of this training. If you have questions about how to take the on-line course and practical skills test, your respective Training Coordinator can help guide you through the process.

Thank you for all you do and stay safe out there,

Charlie

Chief's Message

Police work is never easy, never predictable, and always dangerous. The inherent dangers of our line of work clearly exist, and sadly have become more evident this past year for our Department. Across the country, police officers are often confronted with violent armed suspects, and tragically, some of these incidents result in serious injury to our officers. When I meet with our officers following these traumatic incidents I am always grateful to learn how their training, tactical skills and equipment have protected them from these violent assaults. But more importantly, I am in awe of the personal courage these officers display and their will to survive. We can provide them with hours of training and give them the tools to protect themselves and the community, but we can’t teach them how to be brave, that comes from within. These brave men and women truly embody the essence of what heroes are made of.

This year’s Above and Beyond Medal of Valor and Purple Heart Awards will be held on September 4th at the Hollywood and Highland Center’s Grand Ballroom. The ceremony will recognize twenty-six officers for their bravery, heroism, and courage. These humble men and women have gone above and beyond to serve this great City and this will be our day to honor them. I invite each of you to join us as we pay tribute to their extraordinary service and recount their heroic acts.

Congratulations to this year’s Medal of Valor and Purple Heart recipients:

Medal of Valor Honorees

Officer Canaan Bodell, Serial No. 34688, Metropolitan Division
Officer James Brown, Serial No. 31342, Metropolitan Division
Officer Michael Messenger, Serial No. 30403, Metropolitan Division
Officer Hans Almaraz, Serial No. 27559, Rampart Area
Officer Joseph Arevalo, Serial No. 35784, Rampart Area
Officer Mark Austin, Serial No. 40135, Rampart Area
Officer David Blake, Serial No. 40139, Rampart Area
Sergeant Joseph Broussard, Serial No. 35924, Criminal Gang and Homicide Division
Officer Juan Garcia, Serial No. 35969, Rampart Area
Officer Brad Gorby, Serial No. 36118, Rampart Area
Officer Ryan Nguyen, Serial No. 34595, Rampart Area
Officer Clinton Perez, Serial No. 34732, Rampart Area
Officer Sean Schneider, Serial No. 36133, Metropolitan Division
Officer Donald Thompson, Serial No. 25595, Emergency Services Division

Purple Heart Award Honorees

Sergeant Philip Scallon, Serial No. 35240, Pacific Division
Police Officer Sean Schneider, Serial No. 36133, Metropolitan Division
Retired Police Officer Richard Beardslee, Serial No. 15500, Wilshire Area
Retired Police Officer Jack Rand, Serial No. 17619, Wilshire Area
Police Officer Rick L. Webb, Serial No. 23955, Mission Division
Retired Police Officer Bill Skiles, Serial No. 21119, Hollenbeck Area
Police Officer Christopher Walter, Serial No. 27009, Information Technology Division
Police Officer Alejandro Valencia, Serial No. 36292, Foothill Division

Purple Heart Honorees Awarded Posthumously

Detective Robert Endler, Serial No. 6221, Wilshire Area
Detective Sergeant Charles Monaghan, Serial No. 6078, Wilshire Area
Detective Gerald Sawyer, Serial No. 11797, Narcotics Division
Policeman Norbert Huseman, Serial No. 7425, Newton Area

Thank You…

This coming March will mark my 40th year as a member of the Los Angeles Police Department. I have been immensely proud to serve as your Chief for the past five years and I look forward to the opportunity to continue in this role for the next five. The reappointment process has been very difficult and personally challenging. It has created division and conflict within the Department far beyond what I had envisioned. Now is the time for us to come together in support of not only our mission but of each other. We have important work to do. We have a great City to police, one that deserves to be the safest big city in America to be policed effectively and constitutionally. Most of all, it deserves to have the best police department in the world.

I thank the men and women of this Department for the successes and the strides we have made over the years. You have worked hard and truly deserve to be recognized as members of the world’s finest police department. As we move forward, I am eager to work with you towards achieving the goal of making Los Angeles the safest big City in America. This begins with each and every member of this Department, in the way we act every day. Let’s demonstrate our professionalism and pride of this world class organization by the way we treat each other moving forward.

Be safe and take care of each other,

Charlie

Chief of Police Message - August 2014

August 2014 COP

Mid - Year City-wide Crime Statistics

As we have passed the yearly half way mark, we should take a moment to reflect on the accomplishments of your hard work and the difference it has made in keeping crime levels down.  You have faced and overcome unprecedented challenges during one of the largest fiscal crisis the Department has ever experienced, while still reducing crime.  Each member of this Department has much to be proud of. 

In comparison to the first six months of 2013, property crimes have decreased 7.0% and Part I crimes are down 5.4%.  During this period, we have experienced a slight increase by 2.9% in violent crimes.  One of the reductions I am most proud of is our reductions in gang crime.  This City, not very long ago, was known as the gang capital of the United States.  We were also the murder capital of the United States, due to gang murders.  Over the past five years we have reduced gang crime in the City of Los Angeles by more than 52%.  We've reduced it by more than half.  We've done this with effective policing and the great police work by our gang officers and detectives.  But we also know we cannot do this alone.  We've saved lives with the support of the City's programs and its partnerships that understand every aspect of how they can make a difference in reducing gang violence with an emphasis on intervention and prevention.  This offers a community solution with smart and fair policing by our officers, with a solution that entails a route back into society with successful reintegration.  I am extremely proud of you for engaging and embracing the challenges that come along with fighting gang crime.  Ultimately your consistent and unrelenting commitment as officers to effectively improve the quality of everyday life in our neighborhoods has saved countless lives.  This is evidenced by the crime reductions and the successes of smart community programs.  When we review year to date gang-related aggravated assaults, they are down 9.1%, gang-related rapes are down 59.1% and total gang crime has been reduced 13.1%.  

As always we must remember that these numbers represent people. Our level of high quality policing has ensured there are less people who have been victimized in our City. Our quality of policing, predictive policing and the positive relationships we maintain with our communities, has enabled us to keep crime down to historic levels for many years.  Let us continue working together toward the end of 2014.

National Night Out

On Tuesday August 5, 2014, in a strong show of support, communities across the country will join their local law enforcement agencies in unity against crime and drugs to celebrate the 31st Annual National Night Out. This annual event is celebrated nationwide the first Tuesday of August as neighbors come together and take a unified stand in declaring their neighborhood crime and drug free.  Throughout the City our area stations will host open houses and block parties. Our police officers will lead vigils and community walks that promote neighborhood camaraderie and strengthen our police-community partnerships. Please lend your support to this great anti-crime effort.

LAPD Safe Summer Tipoff Recap

Congratulations to the LAPD basketball team as they emerged victorious 55 - 44 over the Los Angeles Fire Department team for a fifth consecutive championship title. This annual youth safety festival has served as a great way for kids across the City to kick off their summer vacation. It was great to see the positive effect our police officers have when interacting with so many kids and their families. A very special thank you to our event host Arsenio Hall for his energy and humor that made this event memorable and fun for everyone in attendance. I would like to give special recognition to Officer Sara Faden, Media Relations Section, for her remarkable efforts in organizing and making this event come together seamlessly for a fifth successful year in a row. Lastly, I cannot forget our gracious community sponsors who once again made this festival a huge success.  













The United States Police and Fire Championships

In late June, almost 5,000 police and fire department personnel from across the country traveled to San Diego to compete against one another in more than 55 sporting events. These competitive matches took place in more than 35 venues. This year 387 LAPD personnel competed, more than any other agency. Our Department employees had great success by capturing 95 Gold medals, 62 Silver medals, and 32 Bronze Medals. I am very proud of our police officers for their dedication, commitment to personal training and diet regimens they maintain all year long, and for representing the Department in this annual national competition.  I know it takes a lot of sacrifice and work to maintain a competitive level of skill and fitness, which makes me proud to see you representing this world class Department.  I always look forward to supporting you and watching you compete at the events. 

Labor Negotiations

At the time of this writing, the tentative contract agreement failed to be ratified by the majority rank and file.  It is important to recognize that union and City leaders will continue working together to reach an agreement that is fair and equitable to everyone.  In the days following the ratification meetings, I had the chance to attend several roll calls, listen to your concerns and pledge my support for this great Department and its members.  I was very pleased to see the level of professionalism and respect demonstrated by all of you during uncertain times. 

Again, I reaffirm my most sincere appreciation for each and every one of you.  I expect we will move through this process as professionals and continue to carry out your duties with the same regard you always do.  Most importantly, I ask that you discuss your differences of opinion in a respectful manner without allowing your personal viewpoints to create animosity or division in the workplace. 

Be safe,
Charlie

Chief's Message

Safety

Making sure you go home safely is my most important job. When out on patrol, you use good judgment that guides you in dangerous situations. Anything that makes our job less safe must be eliminated and replaced with good solid tactics that become routine and second nature to you. This means wearing your seatbelt and reminding your partner to do the same. Remember, distracted driving is anything that takes your focus away from the road.

Lastly, remember the on duty training we have provided you and apply it off duty to keep you and your loved ones safe. When things are in order at home, you will have less to worry about while at work.

Historic Notes Elysian Park Academy

As you know our iconic police academy is currently being renovated, prompting many of us to look back at our own personal memories and appreciate its rich history. I found some interesting historical notes I wanted to share with you.

Approximately 33,210 sworn men and women have graduated from the Academy grounds. The first police recruit graduated in 1936. All officers received their formal training at Elysian Park until the opening of the Ahmanson Recruit Training Center in 1998. The mural on the athletic field represents men and woman of all backgrounds. It is a tribute to all who represent the LAPD family and a gift from the Class of 2-81. The mural replaced the Olympic Rings that were mounted for the 1932 Olympics.

In 1925, the Los Angeles Police Revolver and Athletic Club was formed by a private organization of sworn members of the Department who opened an onsite pistol range, restaurant and café. In 1973, the Rock Garden was listed as No. 110 on the list of “Historic-Cultural Monuments” in Los Angeles, providing official recognition and protection for Los Angeles’ most significant and cherished historic resources

Patrol Shifts, Vertical Staff Meetings and Coffee with the Chief

Since I've been Chief, I have remained committed to meeting with you and working side by side with you to gain insight from where you sit and work everyday. I need to know what's important to you and what your likes and frustrations are when it comes to work efficiency or past practices. I find there is so much value in these meetings, which often prompts great suggestions I can work on that will improve your job effectiveness and ability to do your work.

Some have asked the status of the multi-function rifle racks. Motor Transport Division personnel are working very hard and quickly as possible to continue installing the racks in every new black and white police vehicle being rolled out this year. They are working hard for you, so please do all you can to take care of these new cars and your equipment.

Most recently, I was asked when the Digital In Car Video (DICV) cameras will be rolled out citywide. As of now, the infrastructure within Operations Central Bureau (OCB) is being installed and will be up and running in the black and whites by late summer and completion is expected by the end of the year. Operations West Bureau (OWB) is next and we have funding already identified for it. Eventually DICV will go citywide and the Department will continue to move forward. Currently the DICV software system upgrade for OSB is in progress and will continue as the infrastructure is built out across OCB.

Lastly, in 2013 the City allowed hiring for some of our civilian workforce and this should continue into 2014. I will continue to push for these new hires, upgrades and certification of eligible lists via the Managed Hiring Committee.

In closing, I do appreciate the candid and healthy discussions we've had in our meetings so expect I will be at your division soon. The offer still stands for each of you to send me a personal email if I miss you at your workplace. I answer my own emails and I will get back to you as quickly as I can.

Be safe and thank you for all you do,

Charlie

Chief's Message

While words cannot explain the sorrow we are feeling as an LAPD family, it is during these difficult and trying times that we look to each other for comfort and solace. Keep your heads up and be proud to be a member of this fine police department. You have supported each other in ways unimaginable and have demonstrated the utmost respect and honor for our fallen brothers in what now feels like a very small yet close knit family of nearly 13,000 civilian and sworn men and women. Together we will get through this. In time, our hearts will heal but we shall never forget.

Summer of Success

This year the City's summer youth job program will serve 10,000 young people. As you are out in the field during the summer months, you will have an opportunity to interact with various youth striving to become young professionals within the community. You serve as a point of inspiration and leadership with each youth with every interaction you engage with them. Seize this moment to make a difference in their lives, even if its just one life at a time.

As the days get longer during summer vacation, kids will once again have the Summer Night Lights program. For the 7th year, the Summer Night Lights will operate at 32 locations across the City, keeping recreation centers and neighborhood parks open between 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Kids who are at-risk for gang involvement or gang-violence will be given the opportunity to participate in a diverse range of activities for them and their families at every park. We all have the fundamental right to enjoy our neighborhood parks and by doing so we make a difference in the lives of those that live, work and play in our communities. It is our neighborhood and together we can make a difference in creating a safe and fun summer of success.

Safe Summer Tip-Off Youth Safety Festival and Basketball Event

Summer time is family time. I cannot think of a better way to celebrate family and friendships than with a BBQ. The Safe Summer Tip-Off Youth Festival and Basketball game is one of my personal favorite events.

The 2014 Safe Summer Tip-Off will be held on Saturday, June 14th at the USC Galen Center and hosted by our good friend Arsenio Hall.

Now in it’s fifth year, this free youth festival focuses on bringing kids from throughout the City out for a day of fun, food, prizes. I invite you to the bring your family out to spend some time with our event sponsors, and Public Safety professionals from the Los Angeles Police Department, and the Los Angeles Fire Department.

This festival allows the public an opportunity to get up close & personal with the vast array of amazing vehicles, and emergency equipment utilized by the LAFD & LAPD.

What begins as friendly competition turns into an intense basketball game between the undefeated LAPD basketball team and LAFD challengers. Last year’s game was an intense contest which saw the LAFD break out to a big lead over the LAPD in the early going only to be caught and eventually lose in a crazy finish. It was fitting that the final score was LAPD 51 – LAFD 50!

We will also incorporate our various Social Media channels into this year’s events. We have set up a site on https://www.facebook.com/safesummertipoff, on Twitter @SummerTipOff and also on Instagram @SummerTipOff. You can also follow me on Twitter @LAPDChiefBeck & Instagram @LAPDChiefCharlieBeck.

This free event is an outstanding opportunity to make a lasting and positive impression on kids during the start of their summer vacation. We hope to see you there.

Chief's Message

During Police Memorial Month we take time to remember all of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and died in the line of duty. This month holds a special significance, not only for all law enforcement agencies around the country, but for our Department as well. I write this message with a heavy heart as, sadly, we mourn the death of yet another Los Angeles Police Officer. This has been a difficult time for us all. The untimely deaths of two LAPD officers within weeks of one another underscores the inherent dangers of this job and reminds us of just how precious life is.

In the history of the Los Angeles Police Department 206 courageous men and women have been killed in the line of duty. On April 9, 2014, a hero was taken from us too soon. Valley Traffic Division Motor Police Officer II+II Christopher Cortijo, Serial No. 25473, battled and lost his fight to overcome the traumatic injuries he sustained after being hit by a suspected DUI driver in North Hollywood. A 27 year veteran of our Department, Chris was well respected by his colleagues and exemplified what it means to be a Los Angeles Police Officer. He arrested more than 3,000 drivers suspected of being under the influence and in doing so saved countless lives. We lost a brave and dedicated cop who will never be forgotten. His call sign, 35MX101, will now forever be his own as I am retiring it from service.

 

It seems only a few short weeks ago we mourned the loss of our brother, Officer Nick Lee from Hollywood Division, also killed in a tragic traffic collision while responding to a call with his partner on March 7, 2014. I ask that you always keep in your thoughts and prayers, Nick's surviving partner officer. Nick was a great cop, and spent much of his career working Hollywood Area. The community came to know him well and see for themselves why he was well liked and respected by those who knew him. In his honor, I officially retired Nick Lee’s car, 6A65 after his final farewell when he was laid to rest. The new Basic Car designation for that area has been identified as 6A63. We will always remember Nick and his “call sign” 6A65. RIP.

We must never forget Chris, Nick, and the other 204 Los Angeles Police Officers who sacrificed their lives while protecting and serving. In remembrance of our fallen heroes join me in wearing the black mourning band over your badge everyday throughout the month of May. I hope you have a chance to attend our Annual Memorial Ceremony on May 8th in the courtyard of our Police Headquarters Building at 10am. It is a great tribute honoring our fallen officers. Each day you put on your uniform and shine your badge, honor them as they are still with us. Heroes never die. They live forever in our hearts.

Police Academy Remodel

At the end of February the academy café closed its doors as the first phase of the Elysian Park Police Academy remodel began. Plans are currently underway for the closure and relocation of the administrative offices as well as the LAPRAAC offices and Gun & Gift Shop. Full closure and relocation of these offices are anticipated to be complete by the end of June.

The LAPRAAC offices will relocate into classrooms 2-6 (trailers) as well as the Gun & Gift Shop. All team sports and competitions will continue with some events having to move off site. There will be two shooting ranges open during the entire duration of the remodel so you will still be able to qualify on the grounds.

The remodel of the academy will be paid for out of Proposition Q funds and is long overdue. The academy will feature new shooting ranges complete with traps, targets and decking as well as new plumbing, electrical wiring, flooring and paint for refurbished buildings. There will also be a new building built with office space for administrative functions as well as classrooms for training purposes. The entire process is anticipated to take approximately two years to complete.

To be clear, the academy will not be closed during the remodel. Certain functions will merely be temporarily relocated.

Baker to Vegas

This year we celebrated the 30th Anniversary of the annual Baker to Vegas Relay Race. Billed as “the longest foot pursuit in the world,” the race featured more than 250 teams from law enforcement agencies around the globe.

Our Department had more than 100 teams participate, many of them running in honor of Police Officer Nick Lee. Our Department’s Open and Women’s Team took top honors in their respective categories yet again. This is a tremendous accomplishment. The LAPD is making history and creating a legacy of winning teams. The Department’s Open Team enjoyed a “three-peat” win and our Womens Team has held the top title for five consecutive years!

Thank You to all the support teams and team coordinators who make this event possible.

I want to take this opportunity to congratulate all of you who participated in the race and recognize Olympic Area for their impressive First Place finish in the Station Category, followed by Southeast Area, finishing 3rd. In the Mixed Category, nine LAPD Areas dominated with Foothill Area taking 2nd Place. 77th Street Area finished 2nd in the ISta category and Major Crimes Division placed 4th in the IX800 category. Also in the IX800 category, Old Blue placed 5th. (Thanks for having me, Old Blue!) It was a great run. Every year I take great pride in seeing your competitive spirit alive and well in the desert and I look forward to seeing you out there again in 2015.

Los Angeles Police Celebrity Golf Tournament

The Los Angeles Police Memorial Foundation will be holding its 42nd Annual Celebrity Golf Tournament on Saturday May 31, 2014, at the Brookside Golf Club in Pasadena, California. The event will be hosted by actor Dennis Quaid and is sure to be a star-studded affair.

The proceeds raised by the golf tournament will benefit the Memorial Foundation which has done a tremendous job of supporting the families of the Los Angeles Police officers who have died in the line of duty. Their generosity and financial support contributes to the healing process of those families during their time of need. I commend the Memorial Foundation for their efforts over the years and am grateful for their support.

History of Reserve Officers

This year marks the 67th anniversary of the LAPD’s reserve program. The concept actually started even earlier, during World War II, when the war depleted the pool of qualified police officer candidates. To help make up for the personnel shortage, the LAPD looked to citizens who began to serve as auxiliary police and air-raid wardens.

In 1947 the official Police Reserve Corps was established per a Los Angeles City Council ordinance. The Corps has evolved over the years, and the standards for Reserve Police Officer of the Los Angeles Police Department have been progressively upgraded. Today Reserves exactly match the same training standards as full time officers. Reserves contribute their own time on a volunteer bases. They are not paid. Many LAPD officers become Reserves upon retiring from their full-time position, and some begin their careers in law enforcement as Reserve Officers, as I did.

 

In 1968, the LAPD began a line reserve class. It was the year Adam 12 debuted. Chief William H. Parker had died two years before. Jack Webb was producing the second version of the Dragnet television series, playing Sergeant Joe Friday, this time in living color. Line Reserves were to be trained as regular field officers, and assigned patrol duties when they graduated.

There are currently more than 400 active LAPD reserve officers today. They work a variety of assignments – from Patrol to specialized details (Detectives, Vice, Air Support, Motors, and Mounted units). The hours and duties worked by these 700 officers are equivalent to a force of 100 full-time peace officers. I cannot thank them enough for their commitment to the profession and the community we serve.

Fallen Heroes, Our Reserve Police Officers:

There have been two LAPD Reserve Police Officers killed in the line of duty: Stuart Taira, Air Support Division, died in a helicopter accident on March 1, 1983. Reserve Officer G.B. Mogle, assigned to 77th Division was shot by a prowler suspect on July 31, 1946. He succumbed to his wounds a week later on August 7, 1946.

This memorial month take some time to remember those who have sacrificed all in the name of service to others. Their memory will live in our hearts and within our organization forever. Please take care of yourself and each other.

Charlie

Chief's Message

Policing a world class city like Los Angeles presents unique challenges. The allure of our great City draws people from around the globe and events in Los Angeles captivate the world’s attention.  Last month, we hosted several large events, including the Los Angeles Marathon.  

I thank each and every one of you working behind the scenes in the planning stages and those working on the days of the events.  You represented our City and the Department with professionalism and class, despite unexpected circumstances while we were mourning the tragic loss of our fallen brother.

On March 7, 2014 the Los Angeles Police Department lost a hero, Hollywood Area's 

Police Officer III Nicholas Lee, Serial No. 34980. While we recognize everyday our officers put their lives on the line to uphold the law and keep our communities safe, it is the harsh reality of police work. It is the reality we come to despise when a hero is taken from us like Nick and the 204 officers before him, killed in the line of duty. Nick's death was a great loss to our police family, all of law enforcement and the residents of Los Angeles. I know you will continue to honor Nick's memory and offer your unrelenting support to his family and his partner officer, Stephanie. Always look after each other and remember...heroes never die. They live forever in our hearts.

Death of LAPD's First Latina Police Woman
Last month we learned of the unfortunate passing of Police Woman Josephine Serrano Collier, Serial No. 3265.Josephine was part the first group of women to join the Los Angeles Police Department not as Matrons but as Police Women.

 

In 1946 on the advice of a friend, Josephine applied to the LAPD regardless of the strong cultural traditions and against her family wishes. Josephine, at the young age of 23 was one of 200 women who applied. She completed academy training for Police Women during the first class in 1946, issued a nurse's uniform and earned a salary of $200 per month. As the first Latina Police Woman she had difficult challenges not only as a woman but as a Latina in an era of difficult cultural challenges for the Department. Josephine served in the Lincoln Heights Jail where she remained for several years. In 1948 the Police Women were sent back to the academy to learn how to shoot and were issued firearms as well as the first Police Woman uniform. Josephine served various assignments in Hollenbeck Vice, Juvenile, Bunco and foot beat assignments.

 

Josephine married fellow Officer Darwin “Jack” Collier and raised three children. She retired on October 24, 1960 as a result of an injury. Josephine passed on February 25, 2014 in Tucson, Arizona.

 

The Department recognizes Josephine for her sacrifices and breaking the lines that divided women from many assignments in the early history of LAPD. Her commitments and sacrifices opened the doors for many women and Latinas within the Department and set the stage for future generations.

History of Communications Division

With National Dispatchers Week being observed during the month of April, I wanted to take this opportunity to feature Communications Division. Communications Division serves as the Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) for the City of Los Angeles, with all 9-1-1 calls originating within the City routed to there.

Here's a glimpse of how things were done in the Department, long before any of our active police officers were born. It was in 1931, under the leadership of Police Chief Roy Steckel, that the Los Angeles Police Department began dispatching patrol units via radio. Telephone calls from the public were answered by City Hall switchboard operators. Those requiring police service were sent by conveyer belt to a Police Officer in a remote-control room in the north wing of City Hall, who would then broadcast the call over the air. Shortly thereafter, an eight-position “Complaint Board” was created. Police Officers working this assignment received calls directly from the public, rather than having information relayed from the City Hall operators. Complaint Board Officers were required to have at least five years of field experience.

In the 1950’s, dispatching for the San Fernando Valley was handled from a separate facility in Van Nuys. When Parker Center opened in 1955, Communications Division was moved from City Hall to the new Police Administration Building. The space was three times larger than the City Hall facility and became known as the “Horse Shoe” because of the “U” shaped layout of the consoles. On April 17, 1983, Communications Division moved into the newly constructed “Central Dispatch Center,” or CDC, located four stories below City Hall East.

In January 1984, just in time for the Olympics, the 9-1-1 emergency number became operational in the City of Los Angeles. All 9-1-1 and dispatching activity was handled at the CDC by civilian dispatchers known as Police Service Representatives, or PSRs. A PSR was assigned to one of four functions: Radio Telephone Operator (RTO), Emergency Board Operator (EBO), Auxiliary Telephone Operator (ATO) or Bureau Communications Coordinator (BCC).

Finally, the Metropolitan Communications Dispatch Center (MCDC) was built, located at First and Los Angeles Streets, and the Valley Communications Dispatch Center (VCDC) was constructed in West Hills. The MCDC began operations on November 5, 2002 and the VCDC went on-line on September 23, 2003. The two facilities are identical and offer true real-time redundancy. In the event one facility suffers a failure, the other center can immediately assume control of communications functions for the entire City.

Significant Incident

One of the most highly publicized and well known incidents that exemplifies the professionalism and superior training of LAPD’s PSRs was on February 28, 1997. Two heavily armed gunmen robbed a Bank of America branch on Laurel Canyon Boulevard in North Hollywood. As the gunmen were attempting to flee the robbery, North Hollywood patrol officers confronted the suspects. A 44-minute gun battle followed, resulting in injuries to 11 police officers, 7 civilians, and the death of both suspects.

With the help of their co-workers, PSRs TonjaBellard, Guadalupe De La Cruz and Robyn Frazier maintained order during absolute chaos. These PSRs handled multiple reports of officers and citizens down, Officer Needs Help calls, and numerous overlapping radio messages. This situation is a dispatcher’s worst nightmare but they maintained their composure and became a comforting voice for our wounded officers awaiting help. The Communications Division personnel involved received numerous awards and accolades for their outstanding performance during a horrific situation.

Everyday our dispatchers handle to perfection extremely challenging or emotional calls for service we don't always learn about it in the news, but these incidents do exist. I have had the opportunity to work side by side with some of our best PSRs and I am simply humbled by what they do. They offer exceptional service and work so hard to ensure the officers are safe and provide as much information as possible to handle a radio call or manage a tactical scene. As a patrol cop and now as Chief, I have always appreciated their work and recognize their unique talents. When I am working patrol or driving through the City and I hear a simple "Thank you" or "Good Night and Be Safe" over the radio, it makes me proud to hear the sense of teamwork and professional camaraderie. Continue to respect each other and recognize we all have a difficult and sometimes challenging job to do, even for those on other side of the radio.

On behalf of the men and women of the LAPD, please accept my most sincere "Thank You". We thank our dispatchers for the remarkable work they do every day, 24/7.

Be safe in your actions and lean on each other when you need to,
Charlie

 

Chief's Message - March

Biased Policing Complaint Mediation Program

The Department’s new Biased Policing Complaint Mediation Program is in full swing as of January 2014. Some of you may have already received a call from the Department’s Mediation Coordinator expressing eligibility of your complaint in the mediation program. The reception of the program from Department personnel and the community alike has been positive and those entering the program are doing so with open minds. With such positive responses thus far, I am hopeful this program will make a difference in improving community relations and help build a better understanding between the police and the communities we serve.

This program has my full support as well as the support of the Los Angeles Police Protective League and the Police Commission. As we move forward in the post-Consent Decree era, this program will help demonstrate our commitment to our Constitutional and Community Policing goals. I believe this is a step in the right direction for us all. By the end of the pilot program period, I anticipate we'll have a good number of cases from which we can learn from and obtain feedback about the program.

Robbery Homicide Division

This month we highlight Robbery Homicide Division (RHD). Established in 1969, by combining the once separate Robbery and Homicide Divisions. Today's RHD is made up of approximately 110 sworn and civilian personnel under the command of Captain III William Hayes and is comprised of five sections:

Robbery Special Section (RSS)
Homicide Special Section (HSS)
Gang Homicide Unit
Special Assault Section (SAS)
Cold Case Homicide Special Section (CCSS)
Special Investigation Section (SIS)

Each section is under the supervision of a lieutenant and tasked with investigating or providing surveillance support for a wide variety of select crimes that are often high profile in nature. The sections also serves as liaisons between other law enforcement agencies regarding cases of mutual interest and, when required, orchestrate multi-divisional and/or multi-agency task force investigations.

Noteworthy investigations that RHD has completed or participated in read like a Hollywood script depicting the history of crime in LA:

The Tate-LaBianca murders (1969), the Symbionese Liberation Army Shootout (1974), the “Hillside Strangler” (1977-1978), the “Night Stalker” (1984-1985), the O.J. Simpson Investigation (1994), the “North Hollywood Shootout” (1997), Serial Killer Chester Turner (1987-1998), the Robert Blake Investigation (2001), the “Grim Sleeper” Task Force (2005-Present), LAFD Captain David Del Toro Investigation (2006), and the Michael Jackson Case (2009).

Elysian Park Renovation

As the Elysian Park Academy gets ready to close for renovation, the LAPRAAC café is still open for service. Their last day of operation is Friday June 13.

RIP Clerk Michael Pell, R&I Division

In closing, I'd like to express my heartfelt sorrow for the unexpected loss of an unsung hero, Clerk Michael Pell, Serial No. A8825. After holding clerk positions in the United States Post Office and County USC Hospital, Michael Pell, was hired by the Los Angeles Police Department on November 22, 1974, as an Office Trainee assigned to the Records & Identification Division's Arrest Disposition Unit at the age of 25. He was appointed to the position of Clerk two years later and was assigned to the Department's Mail Room, where he remained working until his passing, on February 6, 2014.

For almost 40 years, Michael ensured that the members of this Department received their mail on time and their packages were delivered. He was the go-to person to track down previous incarnations of Department entities renamed during various reorganizations. Michael epitomized personalized service, finding common interests with his customers, swapping news tidbits and anecdotes and sharing his interests in the Jewish religion, collecting law enforcement patches, hockey, and ComicCon events. His coworkers describe him best, as a "fan of life." He truly loved his job and his Records and Identification Division family, as evidenced by many years of perfect attendance, and his refusal to even discuss the possibility of retiring. It is safe to say that Michael is an LAPD icon, familiar to many, and loved by all. He will truly be missed.