Police Officers Are Proud to Protect Our Communities
Day in and day out police officers across the United States come face to face with threats and danger in the normal course of their jobs. This is unlike many other professions and not the path most would choose. The American Alliance of Airport Police Officers (AAAPO) would like to remind our neighbors in our communities that law enforcement officers are here to help, not hurt.
Airline Profits Are Increasing, So Should Airport Security
According to a recent study, ten U.S. passenger airlines collectively reported a pre-tax profit of approximately $12 billion in the first half of 2016, up $700 million when compared to the same time last year. While the American Alliance of Airport Police Officers (AAAPO) is glad to hear that air travel is on the rise, and that airlines and airports are seeing more business, we have to wonder why airport security is still an issue that remains on the back burner.
TSA Management Continues to Jeopardize Public and Employee Safety At Airports
The American Alliance of Airport Police Officers (AAAPO) hails the 16 Members of Congress who have signed on to cosponsor HR 5720, The Checkpoint Safety Act of 2016, which was introduced by Congressman Eliot Engel and will ensure large airports have a dedicated, armed local law enforcement officer near the screening area to reinforce Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and fortify the most crucial traveler chokepoint.
“Preservation of Life” Award Presents a Perilous Quandary for Officers
On September 8, LAPD Chief Charlie Beck honored 25 officers with the inaugural “Preservation of Life” medal for not using deadly force during dangerous encounters. Chuck Wexler, executive director of the Police Executive Research Forum, notes that in this era of intense scrutiny of law enforcement practices, the Department’s controversial new award might be the start of a nationwide trend: “The LAPD is held in special regard, so for them to put this award at the same level as the Medal of Valor sends a huge message to the entire policing profession.”
AAAPO Denounces Weekend Violence and Terror
The American Alliance of Airport Police Officers (AAAPO) denounces the weekend of violence and terror which saw the shooting of two police officers in West Philadelphia on Friday night that claimed the life of a bystander and wounded five others; a stabbing spree at a Minnesota mall on Saturday which injured nine; as well as an explosion near a Marine Corps charity race in Seaside Heights, New Jersey and an explosion in New York City which injured 29 people and led to the discovery of a second bomb in the City, also on Saturday; which was followed by three pipe bombs and two smaller explosive
devices found in Elizabeth, New Jersey on Sunday night. AAAPO sends our condolences to the victims and those injured in these senseless acts.