Possible LASD Sales Pitch: This Job Provides for My Family, But I Never See Them

Let’s get right into it. Custody Assistant Academy Class #112 is in progress. This class began with 24 recruits — the most of any class in recent years. They are scheduled to graduate on July 18, and we wish them the best, as every new body helps in the war of attrition.

The Department’s on-duty wellness program is meant to ease some of the mental and physical strain of excessive overtime and time drafting. It will allow you to work out on duty, run or meditate.

There are parameters. Familiarize yourself with the policy and use it wisely. The one hour on duty is not in addition to your break, as outlined in our Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). You cannot “double dip.” Be a good partner and respect the time so others may also participate.

Unit orders and duty statements govern and outline what you are supposed to do. When those are not accessible, and something happens, how can you be accountable? “Site your reference.”

There is a difference between being a team player and then having that thoughtfulness taken for granted and now assumed as your duty. That has happened to Custody Assistants in many areas, and that has led to some, if not most, of the “gray areas” in which we operate. Language in the unit orders, Department policy and the MOU can clarify most disputes and help expose and close any loophole that may exist. 

There is nothing to report on negotiations. We are still a few months away from a schedule of meetings. Salary is huge for basically everyone. However, there are other aspects that are big for C/As. Salary structure is an issue, the pay gap is an issue and recruitment and retention are issues — so much so that another agency has a billboard with a recruitment pitch just outside of Twin Towers. I haven’t seen too many LASD billboards, and I’m on the road … a lot. 

What is LASD’s “sales pitch”? It used to rely heavily on employees bringing in friends and family. Yet, with things in their current state, employees are not as willing to promote our agency and subject loved ones to the fire. 

“This job is the best and worst thing that’s happened to me. It provides for my family, but I never see them.” That is the gut-wrenching quote from a partner about just how much time we spend at work, on the road back and forth to work or sleeping at work (some in their vehicles to maximize your “eight hours” between shifts, aka “the short turnaround”).

In closing, how can your union represent you, defend you or resolve a questionable situation or circumstance if they don’t know about it?

Numerous times I have been informed of something after the fact, even weeks or months later. I often ask these questions: Did you call the union? Did you get counseled on the matter before you signed any statement or memo? Even if you know you may have a part in something, it may be the difference between how any potential discipline is administered or losing your job altogether. 

You will be represented throughout the entire process, including before the Employee Relations Commission (ERCOM), to get your job back if need be. That is something no competing union can offer.

Put your union to work. PPOA Labor Reps Mark and Dave are ready to dig in. Legal is on deck if the matter calls. The staff is attentive, and they make sure I’m aware of issues involving C/As if you make them aware. You can always contact me directly as well. Send your email to tcoleman@ppoa.com. Take care. Be safe. Stay cool.