Los Angeles: On August 12, 2003, the Los Angeles Police Department, Professional Standards Bureau, began an investigation against Officer Michael Kapalungan, a seven-year veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department, for sexual battery. An extensive probe conducted by Professional Standards Bureau determined that Officer Kapalungan, while on duty, sexually battered a domestic violence victim as well as an undercover officer who was involved in the investigation. On October 1, 2003, the Department relieved Kapalungan of his duties as a police officer and assigned him to his home.

The Department presented its case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Justice System Integrity Division. On January 22, 2004, the Justice System Integrity Division submitted the evidence against Kapalungan to the Grand Jury. On January 26, 2004, the Grand Jury indicted Kapalungan on two felony counts of Sexual Battery, one misdemeanor count of Sexual Battery, and one count of misdemeanor Battery. Kapalungan was arraigned on January 28, 2004.

This investigation involved a number of extensive undercover operations by Professional Standards Bureau’s Special Operation Division. The operations were reviewed by the Office of the Inspector General. The undercover investigation was triggered by a review of the citizen complaint that had been initially lodged against Kapalungan.

The LAPD has zero tolerance for employees that commit crimes. The Department will continue to investigate personnel who commit crimes and seek criminal filings whenever possible.

This news release was prepared by Public Investigation Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, at 213-485-3586.