Message from the Chief

George R. Centeno
Chief of Airport Police

Los Angeles World Airports welcomes George R. Centeno as the new Chief of its Airport Police Division. Chief Centeno, a 28 year veteran of the Santa Monica Police Department, recently headed up the Airport Police Division’s Office of Operations.

Chief Centeno's extensive experience in law enforcement includes a strong background in community relations as well as administrative assignments. While at the Santa Monica Police Department, Chief Centeno commanded a variety of police operations including special enforcement, traffic enforcement, and internal affairs.

Chief Centeno is a proven leader in working with diverse multi jurisdictional agencies. His intricate knowledge of the national incident command system, is an attribute of great importance in coordinating the day-to-day and emergency operations of the several layers of local, state and federal law enforcement agencies at LAX.

Decorated for meritorious service, Chief Centeno was lauded in Santa Monica by his previous department with its Medal of Courage for putting himself in great danger to save the life of a suicide victim. He also received Life Saving Award for rescuing a choking and unconscious infant.

Chief Centeno has a Bachelor of Arts degree from the California State University at Northridge and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.

Los Angeles World Airports looks forward to Chief Centeno’s Leadership and inspiration.