David S. Cunningham, III, accepts the post of President
Alan J. Skobin accepts the post of Vice President

Los Angeles: In a unanimous vote, the five-member Los Angeles Board of Police Commissioners elected David S. Cunningham, III, as President, and Alan J. Skobin as Vice President. While both positions maintain equal voting power with the other Commissioners, the President has the responsibility of setting the agenda and chairing the meetings, and the Vice President accepts those responsibilities in the President’s absence.

President Cunningham stated, "This is truly an honor for me and I am looking forward to the opportunity of leading this Commission and Department in a meaningful way. My experience with the Commission during the last two years has given me a good understanding of the LAPD and also of what the community needs from the LAPD."

President Cunningham was appointed to the Police Commission in 2001 by Mayor James Hahn. He served as Vice President of the Police Commission for the last year. A land use attorney, President Cunningham has dedicated more than 20 years to public service.

Vice President Skobin is Vice President and General Counsel of Galpin Motors, Inc., and has an impressive public service record of more than 30 years. He has served as the Vice President of the Los Angeles City Board of Transportation Commissioners and has also served as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department for more than 20 years, reaching the rank of Reserve Commander.

Outgoing President Rick J. Caruso is required to step down after reaching the two-year limit for Presidency as outlined in the Los Angeles City Charter. During his tenure, the Senior Lead Officers were returned to their posts, the compressed work schedule was implemented, the discipline system was overhauled, Chief William Bratton was appointed, a new pursuit policy was adopted, and the Blue Ribbon Rampart Review Panel was appointed.

All Police Commissioners donate their time and expertise to the City of Los Angeles. It is estimated that each Police Commissioner dedicates approximately 20 hours per week to the civilian oversight of the Los Angeles Police Department.

If you have any questions, please contact Tamryn Catania at 213-485-3531.