Lapd Has Its First Female Commander

Crashing through the glass ceiling, Los Angeles police veteran Betty P. Kelepecz on Thursday became the first woman promoted to the rank of commander in the department’s history.

Presenting Kelepecz with her commander’s badge at a Parker Center ceremony, Police Chief Willie L. Williams said the historic promotion is long overdue but continues his efforts to move women up into the higher ranks of the department.

“The historical implications are that you have an organization that has been first in so many areas but lagged behind in terms of seeing women move up,” Williams said. “Now you have a woman in the senior command of the department. Over the last five years many more women are on the sergeants and lieutenants list and are moving up.”

Kelepecz said she recognizes the responsibility that comes with her breakthrough appointment.

“I know what this means. I have a big responsibility to all of the women in this room,” said Kelepecz, who currently oversees the department’s Scientific Investigation Division.