| Written by Francis Taylor, (Sentinel Staff Writer), on 12-10-2009 00:00 |
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Chief Charlie Beck Sworn-In:
Los Angeles Police Department
Chief Charlie Beck
By Francis Taylor
Sentinel Staff Writer
One week ago the City of Los Angeles celebrated the traditional swearing-in of her 56th Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) when 32-year LAPD veteran Charlie Beck was sworn-in by Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.
In the presence of Beck's family members, members of the Los Angeles City Council and Police Commission, Elected Officials, and members of the community, Chief Beck spoke with pride and humility as he accepted the mantle of leadership while acknowledging the mentors and supporters who, throughout his celebrated career with the LAPD, contributed to his ascension to become the City of Angels' Top Cop.
"I am humbled by the position," Beck said as he acknowledged the nearly 10,000 sworn officers and 3,000 civilian employees who comprise the LAPD. "I appreciate this opportunity and I will not let you down."
Beck's appointment follows the vacancy created by the voluntary resignation of Chief William Bratton who is credited with establishing a new direction of leadership which has contributed to an unprecedented decline in crime in the city and an homicide rate that is the best in decades.
John Mack, President of the Los Angeles Police Commission, whose role is to provide governance, oversight, and policy direction for the LAPD said, "this is a proud day for the LAPD and all of the citizens of this great city. Beck will lead by example based upon a platform of service to others."
Willis Edwards, Community Leader and NAACP National Board Member said, "I expect Chief Beck will bring the community together and instill a feeling of fairness as our community works together with the police department to fight crime."
Rev. Leonard Jackson, Sr. Advisor to the Mayor of Los Angles said of Chief Beck's appointment, "with any new appointment one may always be sure of change and in Chief Beck's case, I hope there will be positive change as he embraces the diversity of Los Angeles and continues to move in a positive direction."
Civil Rights Attorney Connie Rice was also present to witness Chief Beck's swearing-in and indicated that she too anticipates improvement among members of the police force. "I hope that he will drive change down through the rank and file and throughout the Los Angeles Police Department so that we may see the change in our community."
Mayor Villaraigosa, in his opening remarks highlighted Beck's illustrious career leading up to his most recent appointment and set the stage for measuring his performance going forward.
"I look to members of the Los Angeles Police Department to understand the obligation to serve the members of the community" he said. "We have the strongest, most well equipped force the city has seen. We have made progress but we have much work to do. Last update: 12-11-2009 12:38
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