Detective Suzanna Kazarian was born in Armenia and moved to the United States at the age of three. Initially, she pursued a path in classical music as a professional pianist. It was during an internship with the Los Angeles Police Department, North Hollywood Division Detectives, that she discovered her passion for policing, working alongside detectives. During that time, she conducted research on repeat offenders, presenting her findings in COMPSTAT to contribute to crime reduction strategies.
Later, Detective Kazarian transitioned to the role of an LAPD Detention Officer at Metropolitan Detention Center and Van Nuys Jail. In this capacity, she conducted critical research, resulting in the approval and hiring of additional jail personnel. Recognized for her attention to detail, she was selected to the position of Regional Jail Section Inspector, conducting audits to ensure state regulation compliance.
After earning her master’s degree in forensic psychology, Detective Kazarian began the police academy, where she was appointed president of her police academy class. She was then transferred to North Hollywood Division and later Northeast Division as a police officer. During this time, Detective Kazarian became a certified drug recognition expert (DRE). Moreover, Detective Kazarian was awarded the Preservation of Life Medal for exceptional tactics and restraint that preserved life and ensured public and officer safety during a dangerous encounter.
Next, Detective Kazarian transferred to the Recruitment and Employment Division, Hiring and Evaluation Section, where she completed special projects and mentored candidates. She also served as the Associate Community Officer Coordinator, expanding hiring pathways to college and university students to promote diversity within the Department. Detective Kazarian played a key role in streamlining the hiring process and developing a software application with an outside vendor to enhance recruitment effectiveness.
Her commitment to education and training was further demonstrated when she was selected as a law instructor at the police academy, shaping the next generation of officers with a focus on constitutional policing.
Later, Detective Kazarian took on leadership responsibilities as a patrol sergeant in North Hollywood Division, providing guidance and mentorship to patrol officers in the field. Next, she transitioned to the role of detective in Wilshire Division, specializing in investigating major assault crimes and crimes against persons, handling several high-profile cases.
Next, Detective Kazarian held the position of Associate Advocate as a Detective Supervisor assigned to the Advocate Section of the Professional Standards Bureau. As an Associate Advocate, she had the significant responsibility of representing the Department before the Board of Rights and Administrative Appeal hearings, upholding the Chief’s expectations of accountability and integrity.
Detective Kazarian now serves as the Assistant Officer in Charge of the Advocate Section, holding the rank of Detective III. In this role, she provides leadership, oversees the section’s operations and ensures the effective representation of the Department in administrative disciplinary hearings.
Beyond her core duties, Detective Kazarian is involved in training Department personnel in Active Bystandership in Law Enforcement, Advancing Women in Leadership, Watch Commander School and Internal Affairs School. With over a decade of experience as a professor, Detective Kazarian also serves as a senior adjunct professor at a university. She combines her practical knowledge with academic expertise to educate future difference-makers.
Detective Kazarian attributes her success to the guidance of her mentors and support of her family. In turn, she is passionate about inspiring and mentoring others, committed to making a positive impact on her community, her colleagues, and her students.
