Never did I think when I joined the LAPD 32 years ago that one day I would be chief.

I am humbled by this honor and grateful to the Mayor for this opportunity.

I am honored to have been selected from such a distinguished and accomplished group of candidates and I pledge that I will not let this city down.

This is not just a job to me. This is who I am. It's in my blood: My father was a deputy chief. He joined after World War II and rose through the ranks of the department before retiring with distinction.

My wife Cindy, who has stood by me throughout my career, is a constant source of strength and understanding. She understands so well because she is a cop too.

My sister is a retired detective. She is one of the best who have ever worked in the LAPD. My daughter Brandi is a patrol officer in Hollywood. And my son Martin is the future of the department. He will graduate from the Police Academy on December 4.

That is why I do this job. That is why I met with the Mayor and explained my desire to lead this organization.

You see, I know this department in my bones. I've seen the ghosts and the failures of the LAPD's past, but I also know the glory of this department and see the promise of an incredible future.

I know how far we have come, especially in the last 7 years. The progressive reforms we've made have transformed the LAPD into the world-class law enforcement agency you see today, and kept LA safer than it's been since the fifties.

There's a phrase that I often use - 'Cops count. Character counts. Do the right thing and you can be the difference.' That is how I plan to lead this proud organization.

If you have any questions for me, I want to hear them. Use the form on this page to contact me and I will do my best to respond to as many folks as possible.