Star & Shield Magazine

Nationwide Increase in Sworn Staffing; In LASD, Not So Much

We hold a unique position as the nation’s largest sheriff’s department and third-largest policing agency. We endured the immense impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with the death of George Floyd. In Los Angeles County, these monumental events disproportionately ushered in a series of criminal justice reform efforts favored by voters. Read More

Labor Day: A Reminder That Union Membership Matters

On Wednesday, August 28, PPOA will host our 23rd annual Pre-Labor Day BBQ for all PPOA members and their significant others. This much-anticipated free event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Biscailuz Training Center “grinder” area. A tastefully grilled lunch with all the fixings will be served under the big top and at no cost to PPOA members. Read More

It Is Up to All of Us to Keep an Eye on Each Other

The month of July was full of beyond-sweltering days, during which most of us hid in our air-conditioned cars and offices. I made a trip to Palmdale to see one of Unit 621’s best, Crime Analyst and former Mayor of Palmdale Laura Bettencourt, and the thermometer on my car read 119 degrees. Incredible. As a person is sliding into the last year of their service to LASD, they often reflect on the highs and lows and the many people they encountered on the Department. Read More