LAPD spokesman
For about two and a half years, Lt. Paul Vernon has been the media's go-to man at Parker Center. His last day as an official LAPD spokesman is Friday. He is being transferred to Central Division detectives where he will supervise 35 investigators. Mary Grady, head of media relations, says that his transfer is not unusual and that most officers do not stay in any position for more than a few years unless it is a specialized unit.
Vernons's thoughts on leaving:
"This is a position I never thought I would be in but I came to enjoy it immensely. The Los Angeles press corps are a great group of professionals who provide an important service and I have come to respect them more than ever. It was a great honor to represent my department."
Vernon was on a three week vacation during the May Day melee when 14 members of the media were injured and at least 30 civilians. Seven officers were also injured. Vernon returned to work this week.
"Knowing the LAPD members as I do and now having come to know the press corps, I think that the two groups will be able to weather this storm. From this experience I see the potential for LAPD media relations to improve."
Vernon's replacement has yet to be named.
Comments
Rachel,
Thanks for making public mention of Lieutenant Vernon, who has become both a friend and mentor to his Fire Department media relations colleagues.
Though we'll miss his presence at Parker Center, we extend our heartiest congratulations on his assignment to Central Detectives.
Brian Humphrey
Firefighter/Specialist
Public Service Officer
E.P.I. Center
Los Angeles Fire Department
Posted by: Brian Humphrey | May 23, 2007 11:26 PM
Going from Media Relations to the Central Det. Squad isn't exactly a promotion.
Rumor has it that Vernon stepped on it with some FBI cats and El Bratton' got some revenge and flopped Paul back to a division.
Posted by: One Time | June 6, 2007 7:22 PM