LPD welcomes Elia James Sanchez

Welcome to LPD’s new Director of Crime Prevention, Ms. Elia James Sanchez. Elia comes to the Lawrence Police Department from her previous position as the Director of the State of Indiana Commission for Hispanic and Latino Affairs. She also previously served at the City of Indianapolis Emergency Management Agency as their Strategic Initiatives Manager. She is filling the vacancy created by the retirement of Ms. Linda Sokol, after her 20 years of continuous service. A City of Lawrence resident, Elia is an Adjunct Professor at Indiana University/Purdue University-Indianapolis (IUPUI), and formerly served as a Marion County Probation Officer. She holds a Masters Degree in Public Affairs from IUPUI. Elia will not only serve as LPD’s Director of Crime Prevention (Crime Watch Coordinator), she will take on a variety of additional duties and responsibilities, including Community Engagement and Outreach initiatives. She brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her assignment here at LPD and to the City of Lawrence, overall. Elia is eager to assist with interpretation (verbal) or translation (written) services, or to assist with any situation requiring interaction or assistance with members of our Hispanic community -- whether in the office, or out in the field. Please make a note of her mobile phone number, 317-281-6390, and don’t hesitate to call if/when needed. Welcome aboard, Elia!