EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — An El Paso Community College police lieutenant has earned a statewide certification that places him “among an elite group of command-level officers across the state,” EPCC said in a news release on Monday, Aug. 11.
Lt. Heriberto Franco, who serves the Transmountain and Northwest campuses, earned the Law Enforcement Command Officer Program (LECOP) certification from the Texas Police Chiefs Association (TPCA), EPCC said.
That makes Franco the first officer in El Paso County to achieve this honor, EPCC said.
The LECOP program provides “cutting-edge leadership, management, and criminal justice training to help command officers excel in their roles and advance their organizations,” EPCC said.
During an 18-month period, Franco completed 250 hours of coursework in 10 Texas cities during 13 separate trips, EPCC said.
“The rigorous curriculum challenged participants to think critically about the future of policing and the leadership qualities necessary to guide modern law enforcement agencies,” EPCC said.
For Franco, the motivation to pursue LECOP stemmed from a commitment to lifelong learning and a desire to grow as a leader.
“I wanted to enhance my ability to make a meaningful impact within my department and contribute more effectively to the development of those around me,” he said.
The training reinforced his belief that “policing is one of the most noble professions” and deepened his understanding of the core values that define effective leadership — nobility, honesty, integrity, dignity, and respect, EPCC said.
EPCC said one of the most impactful lessons he got was the concept of “Policing the Police” and the five guiding principles for leadership in law enforcement: character, competence, compassion, courage, and commitment.
“I’m honored to be the first in El Paso County to earn this certification, and I look forward to applying what I’ve learned to serve our community with excellence,” he said.
Franco encourages other officers to seek out similar leadership opportunities. “Participating in LECOP was a true privilege. It provided the chance to learn from outstanding instructors and connect with forward-thinking law enforcement professionals. The knowledge and strategies I gained have significantly strengthened my leadership capabilities,” he said.
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