ANCA-WR Strengthens Community-LAPD Ties at Community Meeting with Chief Jim McDonnell

February 5, 2025

 

Los Angeles, CA – The Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region (ANCA-WR), in collaboration with the ANCA Hollywood Chapter, successfully hosted a Community Meeting with Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell on Monday, February 3, 2025, at the Hollywood Armenian Community Center. The event provided a dynamic platform for Armenian-American community members to engage directly with LAPD leadership, fostering dialogue on public safety, crime prevention, and deeper collaboration between law enforcement and the community.

Community members, activists, and local leaders participated in the discussion, demonstrating a strong interest in fostering closer ties with law enforcement. Attendees raised concerns about issues affecting Armenian-American neighborhoods, including public safety, hate crimes, and the role of law enforcement in protecting the community. The meeting also provided an opportunity for residents to share their perspectives and recommendations on strengthening cooperation with the LAPD.

ANCA-WR Board Member and prominent criminal defense attorney Lara Yeretsian, Esq. underscored the significance of direct engagement between law enforcement and the Armenian-American community.

“This was a pivotal moment for our community,” Yeretsian stated. “Building relationships with law enforcement ensures that our voices are heard and our neighborhoods are protected. We appreciate Chief McDonnell’s commitment to fostering trust with the Armenian-American community.”

Garo Ispendjian, Chairperson of the ANCA Hollywood Chapter, welcomed the Chief to the Armenian Cultural Center. Ispendjian highlighted his personal ties to the community as a graduate of Rose and Alex Pilibos and underscored the school’s long-standing role as a cornerstone of Little Armenia.

“As a Rose and Alex Pilibos graduate, I know this institution’s vital role in our community here in Little Armenia. It holds a significant place in my heart, which is why we are committed to strengthening our partnership with the LAPD to ensure the safety of both this institution and the broader community.”

In his remarks, Chief McDonnell reaffirmed the LAPD’s commitment to working closely with the Armenian-American community and ensuring public safety remains a top priority.

“The LAPD is dedicated to working hand-in-hand with the Armenian community to ensure safety and trust,” said Chief McDonnell. “Through open dialogue and collaboration, we can address concerns, strengthen relationships, and build a safer Los Angeles together.”

The Chief also emphasized the value of partnerships between law enforcement and local organizations, highlighting how community policing plays a key role in crime prevention and fostering stronger relationships.

Dr. Souzy Ohanian, Principal of Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School emphasized the importance of a strong and cooperative relationship between the school and the LAPD to ensure the safety and well-being of students. She highlighted that a proactive partnership between law enforcement and the institution is crucial in maintaining a secure and supportive learning environment.

“At Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School, we are more than just an educational institution; we are the cornerstone of the Armenian-American community in Los Angeles. We believe fostering open dialogue, cultural awareness, and proactive engagement between the LAPD and our community is essential.”

Throughout the evening, attendees raised critical concerns about recent incidents impacting Armenians in Los Angeles, the role of law enforcement in protecting vulnerable communities, and the need for greater cultural awareness among officers patrolling Armenian-populated areas. Chief McDonnell reassured the community that the LAPD is dedicated to improving outreach efforts and effectively addressing these concerns.

The event also encouraged Armenian-Americans to take a more active role in public safety initiatives, including exploring careers in the LAPD, participating in community safety programs, and working alongside law enforcement to prevent and report crimes.

The ANCA-WR and its local chapters continue to serve as key advocates for the Armenian-American community, bridging the gap between the public and policymakers at all levels of government. This community meeting was a critical step toward deepening cooperation between the LAPD and Armenian-American communities within Los Angeles.

As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen civic engagement, ANCA-WR will organize more forums to connect Armenian-Americans with key government agencies, reinforcing a culture of partnership and proactive community involvement.

For more information on ANCA-WR’s advocacy initiatives, upcoming community events, or ways to get involved, visit www.ancawr.org or contact info@ancawr.org.

The Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region is the largest and most influential Armenian-American grassroots advocacy organization in the Western United States. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout the Western United States and affiliated organizations around the country, the ANCA-WR advances the concerns of the Armenian-American community on a broad range of issues.