CONTACT: Sgt. Karla Ortiz
     (424) 646-5591

LOS ANGELES AIRPORT POLICE LIEUTENANT MICHAEL VACCARIELLO GRADUATES FROM WEST POINT LEADERSHIP ACADEMY PROGRAM 

(Los Angeles, California – September 30, 2013) Los Angeles Airport Police Lieutenant Michael J. Vaccariello, currently over Security Access Control Unit (SACU), recently graduated from Los Angeles Police Department's (LAPD) West Point Leadership Academy Program in Los Angeles.
The LAPD/West Point Leadership Program (WPLP) is structured after the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point. Soon after the Vietnam War, the military realized that their leaders required further development, and established a program which consists of 136 hours of law enforcement community related material. The programs uses a decision-making model based on a scientific method called Intellectual Procedure, which focuses on improving individual ability in maintaining a balance between the needs of subordinates and the demands of superiors at all levels of command. Finally, the goal of the program is to develop a leader’s ability to influence human behavior in order to accomplish goals.
Lieutenant Vaccariello, along with leaders from various law enforcement agencies nationwide, attended one week a month over a four month period. Participants included a diverse group of professionals from private and public entities. When asked what he liked about the West Point Leadership program, Lt. Vaccariello said "There is a wealth of knowledge and leadership skills that every participant receives from the LAPD trainers/facilitators. Among the 24 participants, we developed a strong and positive camaraderie."
Lieutenant Vaccariello was presented with his certificate by LAPD Assistant Chief Sandy Jo MacArthur. In attendance were Los Angeles Airport Police Security and Traffic Sergeant Melonie Hodge-Harrell, Management Analyst II Denise Chang and Management Assistant Tiffany Baltazar.
Chief Gannon, who supports training for all of his staff said, "Congratulations to Lieutenant Vaccariello for successfully completing this demanding and well respected leadership training. I consider this type of training essential for all members of our organization, and encourage individuals who are serious about improving their leadership skills to apply for these training opportunities."
Other Airport Police graduates in the past include Captain Mario Patrick, Captain Guy Painter, Lieutenant Karen Schulz, Lieutenant Imer Chavez, and Sergeant Anthony Boisselle.
The Los Angeles Airport Police Division is the Nation's premier aviation law enforcement agency with over 1,100 specially trained police officers, security officers, and civilian staff protecting Los Angeles International, Ontario International, and Van Nuys airports.

Los Angeles Airport Police Lieutenant Michael J. Vaccariello