Mr. Schiff: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Chief Larry Lewis of the Alhambra Police Department. Chief Lewis is a 35-year veteran of California Law Enforcement having served in five municipal police agencies. Chief Lewis began his distinguished career as a police cadet in West Covina, CA.
As the police chief for Alhambra, Larry Lewis has been an exemplary leader in working with his department to strengthen its application of the community policing philosophy as well as the department's commitment to ethical and professional behavior. He has instituted effective review procedures of police use of force and vehicle pursuits and introduced less lethal weapons and in-vehicle camera systems into department operations. In 2003, as a result of Chief Lewis' efforts, the department replaced its aging information technology system resulting in a new records management and computer aided dispatch system, mobile data computers in police vehicles, and mapping system as well as improved crime analysis abilities.
An active member of the community, Larry Lewis has served on several professional boards as well as community service associations such as Rotary International and the YMCA. He has taught and lectured on topics of police use of force, sexual harassment prevention, supervision, executive leadership and community policing. In addition, Chief Lewis served as the 2002 president of the Los Angeles County Police Chiefs Association, representing 46 municipal law enforcement agencies in the county.
Chief Lewis received a bachelor of arts degree in political science and masters in public administration from California State University, Fullerton as well as a masters of science degree in management from Cal Poly University, Pomona. He is a graduate of the POST Command College, returning as a presenter during class orientations.
Known for his charisma and sense of humor, Chief Lewis is a popular master of ceremonies for various community and charity events.
Chief Lewis celebrates 32 years of marriage to his wife, Irene in 2004. They enjoy family outings with their son, Steve, and daughter-in-law, Penny.
I ask all Members of Congress to join me today in congratulating Alhambra Police Chief Larry Lewis on an impressive and long spanning career in law enforcement.