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LAPD CHIEF - The search for the next Chief of Police in Los Angeles is a pivotal moment in the city's history. With the challenges of modern policing, community relations, and the need for progressive and inclusive leadership, there is a compelling case to be made for a woman to step into this significant role.
Diversity and Inclusivity:
One of the most crucial aspects of modern policing is the ability to connect with diverse communities and build trust. Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds, and appointing a woman as Chief of Police would send a powerful message of inclusivity and representation. It is essential that the leadership of the police force reflects the diversity of the city it serves.
Community Policing:
Community policing is the cornerstone of effective law enforcement in the 21st century. Women in leadership positions have been shown to excel in community-oriented roles due to their strong communication skills, empathy, and ability to build relationships. A female Chief of Police is more likely to prioritize community policing strategies that focus on collaboration and partnership with local residents.
Gender Equality and Breaking Stereotypes:
Appointing a woman as Chief of Police would be a significant step toward gender equality in a traditionally male-dominated field. It would demonstrate that women can excel in law enforcement leadership roles and help break down stereotypes that may deter women from pursuing careers in policing.
Different Perspectives and Approaches:
Women bring unique perspectives and approaches to leadership roles. Research has shown that women tend to be more collaborative, empathetic, and open to new ideas. These qualities can be invaluable when addressing complex issues like crime prevention, police reform, and community engagement.
Accountability and Transparency:
Recent calls for greater accountability and transparency in policing make it imperative to have leadership that is committed to these principles. A female Chief of Police may be more inclined to promote accountability and transparency, helping rebuild trust between the police force and the community.
Role Model for Future Generations:
Having a woman in the highest-ranking law enforcement position in Los Angeles would serve as a powerful role model for future generations of young girls and women who aspire to careers in law enforcement. It would send a clear message that no position is beyond their reach.
Progressive Policies:
Women have played pivotal roles in advancing progressive policing policies, including de-escalation tactics, crisis intervention training, and community-based alternatives to incarceration. A female Chief of Police may be more likely to prioritize these progressive policies that prioritize the well-being of both officers and the community.
Candidates for the Position:
There are numerous highly qualified women candidates to consider for the position of Chief of Police. Their extensive experience and dedication to their communities make them strong contenders for the role. Some of the notable women to consider include:
- Mara W. Elliott is the San Diego City Attorney and has a strong background in law enforcement, serves as chief legal advisor to the Mayor, City Council, and all City departments, and as the City’s prosecutor.
- Deirdre Fike is a former assistant director in charge of the FBI's Los Angeles field office and now Vice President Security Investigations at MGM Resorts International. She brings decades of experience in law enforcement.
- Kristin Crowley is LA’s Fire Chief who also sits on the Homeland Advisory Board.
- Emada Tingirides is deputy chief of the Los Angeles Police Department, known for her commitment to community engagement and reform efforts. “Our victims need to be part of those solutions and recommendations that come from our government…a wholistic approach…to make our victims whole.”
- Ruby Flores was appointed to the Los Angeles Police Department in 1994. As Commander, Flores worked three of the four geographic Bureaus within this department and promoted to Deputy Chief. She is also President of the Los Angeles Women Police Officers and Associates.
- Sandy Jo MacArthur has a career in policing spanning over 41 years with the Los Angeles Police Department of which 35 years was fulltime and 6 years as a reserve officer. She attained the rank of Assistant Chief before her retirement in 2015 and still works with their training and education division today.
- Beatrice Girmala is the former Assistant Chief of the LAPD who retired after nearly 40 years and has been a trailblazer for women in law enforcement.
The appointment of a woman as the next Chief of Police in Los Angeles would not only symbolize a commitment to diversity and inclusivity but also bring a fresh perspective to the challenges faced by modern law enforcement. It would send a message of empowerment to women and serve as a model of progressive and community-focused policing. Los Angeles has the opportunity to lead by example and make history by selecting a woman as its next Chief of Police. The qualified women candidates for this position are ready to take on the responsibility and lead the city toward a safer and more inclusive future.
(James Frederick is a regular contributor to CityWatch.)
