Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Burbank Police and Fire Headquarters at 200 North Third Street.
A new interim police chief will be stepping through the doors of the Burbank Police and Fire Headquarters soon. Hopefully, he’ll bring with him the kind of new leadership that’s needed for the BPD, in the wake of lawsuits, scandal, the recent suicide of a police office, and oh yes, those investigations.
A news release appeared on the Burbank city website this afternoon announcing that law enforcement veteran Scott LaChasse has accepted the position and would be coming aboard next month.
Here’s the news release:
Burbank Selects Interim Police Chief
Scott LaChasse to assume duties January 7th
BURBANK, Calif. (December 17, 2009) – After a thorough and competitive recruitment process, a leader in Southern California law enforcement has been named Interim Police Chief for the City of Burbank. Scott LaChasse (pronounced La Ch-ahh-s) comes to the City with almost 40 years of experience.
“I look forward to creating an open dialogue with all members of the department, the community and City family,” says LaChasse. “The department is transitioning from a difficult period and there are still tough days ahead but I believe the Burbank Police Department will emerge stronger and well-prepared for the future.”
LaChasse worked for the Los Angeles Police Department from 1970-2002, most recently holding the position of Deputy Chief. In this capacity, he managed almost 1,600 personnel in South Los Angeles.
During his tenure at the LAPD, he held a variety of high-profile positions including Commanding Officer for the Criminal Intelligence, Narcotics, and Uniformed Services Groups. He also served as Assistant Commanding Officer of Operations for the Valley Bureau where he administered the activities of 1,800 personnel in the San Fernando Valley.
“Scott enjoyed a tremendous career with LAPD,” says Burbank City Manager Mike Flad. “His track record of managing complex issues and effective leadership is exactly the fit we were looking for.”
Recently, LaChasse served as Vice President of Security and Emergency Services at Paramount Pictures Corporation. He is a member of several organizations including the International Association of Chiefs of Police, FBI National Academy Associates, and California Peace Officers Association. He is currently Treasurer of the William H. Parker Los Angeles Police Foundation, member of the Homeland Security Board (Los Angeles and Orange Counties) and President of the Chief Special Agents Association. He provides instruction nationally and internationally to public officials and law enforcement officers on the command of critical incidents.
LaChasse earned his Bachelor’s degree from California State University, Los Angeles, and his Master’s in Public Administration from The University of Southern California.
