Alex Vargas
Captain, Communications Division Los Angeles Police Department
Captain Alex Vargas is a dedicated officer with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), born and raised in Los Angeles to Mexican immigrant parents. He holds a bachelor’s degree from California State University, Los Angeles, and a master’s degree from the University of Southern California.
With 30 years of service, Captain Vargas currently serves as the Commanding Officer of the Van Nuys Area, holding the rank of Captain III. Throughout his career, he has held prior Commanding Officer positions at Olympic and Central Patrol Divisions. He has also served in specialized divisions such as Special Operations and Communication, where he prioritized community involvement and engagement within the diverse communities of Los Angeles.
Captain Vargas has worked in various assignments within the LAPD, including patrol in several patrol divisions such as Central, Van Nuys, Hollywood, 77th Street, Hollenbeck, and Newton. He has also served in specialized units such as Van Nuys Vice, Hollenbeck GED, Newton CLEAR, and Southwest GIT. In addition, he has experience as a geographic detective in Southeast and Southwest Detective Divisions, as well as in Internal Affairs at SOD, Valley, and Central Admin Sections.
Outside of his duties as an officer, Captain Vargas has been actively involved with the Cal State LA Mentoring Program for seven years, mentoring individuals interested in pursuing careers in criminal justice. He has also provided guidance and support to numerous police officers navigating the LAPD promotional process.
Captain Vargas has been a member of HAPCOA (Hispanic American Police Command Officers Association) for twelve years and has held various positions within the organization, including Sergeant-At-Arms, Secretary, Treasurer, and Vice President. He actively participates in the Training, Events, and Scholarship committees of #HAPCOA. Additionally, he currently serves as the Vice President of the LAPD Command Officers Association. (COA).
