Airport Police-GTEU multi agency operation-advisory

--MEDIA ADVISORY—
MULTI-AGENCY LAW ENFORCEMENT ACTION AT LOS ANGELES AIRPORT ENHANCES PUBLIC SAFETY FOR USERS OF GROUND TRANSPORTATION

WHAT:    
Multi-agency inspection operation is currently underway at LAX with  unannounced inspections of commercial ground transportation vehicles (limousines, taxis, vans, etc.) Inspections of commercial vehicles include both mechanical and administrative processes.  
Los Angeles Airport Police Ground Transportation Enforcement Unit, California Public
Utilities Commission, Los Angeles Department of Transportation, 
Employment Development Department (EDD) and Los Angeles World 
Airports Landside Operations are concentrating on proper licensing (PUC 
permits and valid drivers licenses), airport operating permits, and other 
law enforcement related issues.  Enforcement units are also concentrating 
on braking systems, passenger restraints and other safety systems required 
to be in good working order.
        
WHY:        
To enhance safety of general public who use commercial ground transportation. Air travelers are a significant audience for commercial ground transportation providers.  In 2008, Airport Police arrested numerous “bandit” drivers operating illegally at LAX, removed 246 commercial ground transportation vehicles and cited 432 drivers for various violations of the Public Utility Commission and the Los Angeles Municipal Code.

WHEN:    
NOW – 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009

WHO:        
Los Angeles Airport Police Ground Transportation Enforcement Unit
California Public Utilities Commission
Los Angeles World Airports Permits Unit
Los Angeles Department of Transportation
Employment Development Department (EDD)
Available speaker: Los Angeles Airport Police Lieutenant Tyrone Tarvin
            
WHERE:    
At Los Angeles International Airport:
LAX Limousine Lot at the intersection of Alverstone and 96th Street

VISUALS:    
Mechanics under cars, many commercial vehicles being inspected. 
Airport Police and other organizations using portable computers to check vehicle licenses, registrations and operating permits.

CONTACT:    
Airport Police Public Information Officer 
Sgt. Ernest Cruz 
(310) 877-2200