LAPD Unveils State of the Art Equipment

Los Angeles: Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa joins Los Angeles Police Department Chief William J. Bratton in unveiling the LAPD’s newest technology and equipment. Most of the equipment on display was purchased through funding provided by Homeland Security Grants.

Highly trained experts from the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), Hazardous Materials Unit, Air Support Division, and Bomb Squad Unit will be on hand with their equipment to provide tours and explain the capabilities of each piece of equipment. The following vehicles will be on display on the oval track of the Physical Fitness Field: Pierce Bomb Squad Response Truck, Bear Armored Rescue Vehicle, BearCat Armored Rescue Vehicle, Hazardous Material Response Vehicle, and Jail Division Sprinter Transport Vehicle.

The Public Information Office Response Truck, a recent purchase, will also be on display for the first time. Equipped with a helicopter wireless downlink system, television-monitoring system with DirecTV, DVD recorder, and other features that will enhance the communications experience amongst the Department, public and media.

Approximate cost of the vehicles, including the specialized equipment nears $3 million.

Chief Bratton will also present challenge coins to four deserving officers who over the previous weeks demonstrated courage during difficult situations. On August 24, 2007, Sergeant Christopher Gomez, Newton Area, witnessed a vehicle collide with the center divider of the Harbor Freeway erupting into flames. Without hesitation, Sergeant Gomez removed the driver from the vehicle and guided him to a safe area. On July 28, 2007, Sergeant Adrian Moody, Officer John Biondo and Officer Daniel Jara, Southwest Area, during an investigation came across an 18-year-old female experiencing breathing difficulties and ultimately lapsed into unconsciousness. Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation was performed until the arrival of the Los Angeles Fire Department. The 18-year-old female was transported to a local hospital. Sadly, she passed away several days later due to a life-long illness.

Part I Crime statistics through September 1, 2007, will be released.

For additional information, please contact Media Relations Section, at 213-485-3586.