About Our Chapter

ABOUT NLPOA ELA

The largest Latino law enforcement association in the United States, dedicated to equality, professionalism, education, and community service since 1974.

Mission Statement

Ensure equal opportunity in the administration of justice for our members and the communities we serve through leadership, mentoring, and charitable giving.

Vision

We are committed to creating a professional association that provides support, advocacy, personal and professional development to its members, and the diverse communities we serve.

Serving East Los Angeles Since 1974

Our Goals

The goal of the Association is to promote equality and professionalism in law enforcement. The objectives of the organization are to create a fraternal/professional Association that provides its members and members of the community with career training; conferences and workshops to promote education and career advancement; mentoring; and a strong commitment to community service.

NLPOA members build bridges between law enforcement and their communities while working to reduce neighborhood tensions through awareness programs and role model programs. Our philosophy regarding youth and education has reinforced the important contributions that our cultural diversity has provided this great nation.

The NLPOA has chapters in Arizona, Connecticut, Florida, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, Wisconsin, and 21 chapters in California.

Community

Build bridges between officers and the diverse communities we serve.

Professionalism

Promote equality and professionalism in every aspect of law enforcement.

Education

Provide career training, workshops, and mentoring for advancement.

Cultural Bridge

Celebrate the contributions cultural diversity provides our nation.

A Legacy of Service

1971

Unofficial Meetings Begin

Interested Peace Officers in Alameda, Santa Clara, Sacramento, and San Joaquin Valley begin informal meetings about forming a Latino law enforcement association.

August 7, 1974

Articles of Incorporation Filed

On August 7, 1974, the Articles of Incorporation of the Latino Peace Officers' Association of California were filed with Secretary of State March Fong Eu. Five courageous officers signed their names to this historic document.

November 23, 1974

First Annual Convention

Held at El Paraiso Restaurant in Fresno, California on November 23, 1974. Dr. Armando Morales, author of "Ando Sangrando," was the luncheon speaker.

1975

El Puente Newsletter Launched

The first association newsletter was developed by Barbara Ponze, Rosa Maria Hernandez, and Vicente Calderon. Fred Caballero donated his time and printing resources.

1976

Height Requirement Eliminated

Association members testified before the California State Personnel Board, leading to the elimination of the CHP height requirement — opening doors for women and minorities.

1976

Bilingual Pay Initiated

LPOA initiated bilingual pay within the California Highway Patrol, setting a precedent adopted by police agencies across the state and nation.

1988

First Business Manager

Gene Reyes became the first Association Manager, directing the transition to 501(c)(3) nonprofit status and establishing the first Political Action Committee.

1999

NLPOA Goes Online

Andrew J. Cruz established the first NLPOA website, giving each chapter its own web page and expanding national reach.

Board of Directors

Our dedicated board members lead the East Los Angeles Chapter with integrity, commitment, and a passion for serving both our members and community.

Richard Jimenez

President

Henry Fimbres

Vice President

Lorenzo Uribe

2nd Vice President

Juan Ferreira

Immediate Past President

Sonia Miramontes

Chapter Secretary

Margaret Hernandez

Treasurer

Alvino Larios

Sergeant at Arms

Alfredo Gonzalez, Jr

Historian