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Welcome to the LAPD

The Los Angeles Police Department is committed to serving the community while protecting the rights of all persons. Consistent with this commitment, the Department’s Vision, Mission and Core Values, in concert with the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics and the Department’s Management Principles, reflect the guiding philosophy of the Los Angeles Police Department.

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Join The Team

The LAPD is one of the largest, most highly regarded law enforcement agencies in the country. The LAPD offers exceptional careers in many areas of law enforcement for men and women from all backgrounds. The City of Los Angeles is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. If you're looking for a career, not just a job, the LAPD is the place for you.

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Chief Charlie Beck
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HEROES

Sergeant J.W. Milton
Monday, May 16, 1949

Remember the Fallen

To Protect and To Serve

In February 1955, the Los Angeles Police Department, through the pages of the internally produced BEAT magazine, conducted a contest for a motto for the police academy. The conditions of the contest stated that: "The motto should be one that in a few words would express some or all the ideals to which the Los Angeles police service is dedicated. It is possible that the winning motto might someday be adopted as the official motto of the Department." The winning entry was the motto, "To Protect and to Serve" submitted by Officer Joseph S. Dorobek.