The Los Angeles Police Department has taken action against one of its high-ranking officers, placing Assistant Chief Alfred Labrada on administrative leave as he becomes the focal point of a criminal investigation.
Labrada stands accused of allegedly discreetly placing an AirTag device in someone’s belongings. Although an external law enforcement agency initiated the criminal inquiry, the LAPD has also launched its own internal investigation. The department has stated that they are actively coordinating with the external agency in question.
Assistant Chief Labrada previously held the position of head of the Office of Special Operations, responsible for overseeing the Counter-Terrorism, Detective, and Transit Services Bureaus. Notably, despite being on administrative leave, he will continue to receive his salary.
In an official statement, the LAPD stated, “As this is a personnel matter, the Department will make no further comment beyond the fact that Assistant Chief Labrada continues in his role as the Director, Office of Special Operations.”
During a recent Police Commission meeting, Police Chief Michel Moore addressed the ongoing investigation. “I can assure the public, as well as the rank-and-file in this organization, that I am taking these allegations very seriously,” Moore affirmed. “The facts will take us where the facts will take us.”
He also emphasized that if the allegations against Labrada are substantiated, he would face the same repercussions as any other officer within the department.