We applaud the election of Alan J. Skobin as vice president of the Los Angeles Board of Police Commissioners. Skobin, who is now in his second term, was first appointed by Mayor James Hahn in 2003 and reappointed in 2005 by Mayor Villaraigosa. He has brought invaluable experience and insight to the commission at a critical time in the history of the LAPD and the city.
Commissioner Skobin generously devotes his time and expertise to serve the public and police officers. Last year, he spearheaded the creation of the LAPD Purple Heart award, which is now awarded to the families of officers killed in the line of duty and to officers who sustain traumatic physical injury during an on-duty tactical situation. He was also the driving force behind the successful effort to acquire new ASTRO radios for officers.
Commissioner Skobin has also been a reserve deputy sheriff with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department for 30 years, reaching the rank of reserve chief. His experience includes patrol, the detectives unit and administration. He has also served on the LAPD's Valor Awards Evaluation Committee, and has received the coveted Distinguished Service Award from the Sheriff’s Department for his overall service. Prior to joining the Sheriff’s Department, he served as a reserve police officer with the San Fernando Police Department for eight years, attaining the rank of sergeant. He is also a graduate of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and Federal Bureau of Investigation Citizen’s Academy.
Commissioner Skobin’s Department liaison and committee assignments include Use of Force, Anti-Terrorism, Transportation and Traffic, the Police Reserve Program, Valley Bureau and Operations. He previously served as a commissioner and vice president of the Los Angeles City Board of Transportation Commissioners. He is also vice president and general counsel of Galpin Motors, Inc.
The League looks forward to continuing its excellent working relationship with Vice President Skobin and we congratulate him on his election to this leadership role.
