The holiday season took on a deeper meaning in the City of Commerce this year as the National Latino Peace Officers Association’s East Los Angeles Chapter once again partnered with Target to bring the annual Shop With A Cop event to life — and the results were nothing short of extraordinary.
One hundred and ten children filled the aisles of Target — and true to the spirit this event has always carried, the majority chose to spend their time shopping not for themselves, but for their families. Year after year, it’s this moment that says the most: kids given the chance to receive, choosing instead to give.
None of this happens without the dedication of NLPOA East LA Chapter members and volunteers, led by Board President Richard Jimenez and the executive board. The countless hours, the late nights, the behind-the-scenes logistics that never make the program — all of it shapes what the children experience on the day itself. The organizing team’s commitment is the foundation everything else is built on.
Distinguished Guests
This year’s event was honored by the presence of community leaders, elected officials, and a few legendary guests who helped make the day unforgettable:
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District Attorney
Nathan Hochman -
Sen. Archuleta's Office
Fred Zermeno -
LASD ELA Ops
Captain Shawnee Hinchman -
LASD ELA Community Relations
Sgt. Ibarra -
Montebello Mayor
Georgina Tamayo -
Montebello Council Member
Scarlet Peralta
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Senator
Maria Elena Durazo -
Asst. Chief, CHP So. Division
Jose Nunez -
LASD ELA Admin Captain
Chris Kusayanagi -
Montebello Police Chief
Luis Lopez -
Montebello Mayor Pro Tem
Danielle Romero -
Boxing Legend Sugar
Ray Leonard
The day also featured the Bel Air Car Club, photographer Art Carrasc, and the beloved Star Wars characters of the Southern California Garrison and the 501st Legion — whose annual appearance never fails to delight the youngest attendees. Videography was handled by Doug, and social media content by Jocelyn Him. The L.A. County Probation Department was also represented in a show of cross-agency community commitment.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Events like Shop With A Cop are a reminder of what community-led programs can achieve when people show up consistently. The NLPOA East LA Chapter is already looking forward to the year ahead — continuing to invest in youth through programs, scholarships, and the kind of direct engagement that shapes how young people see the people who serve their communities.
A heartfelt thank you to all sponsors, partners, and participants who make this possible year after year. Your generosity and presence are what turn a shopping trip into something that lasts.