ALBANY, NY (10/04/2007)(readMedia)-- Louie F. Allen has been appointed Director of Internal Affairs, and will begin working with OMRDD in early October.
Allen brings 37 years experience in law enforcement, 25 of which were spent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
In his capacity as Director of Internal Affairs for OMRDD, Allen will be responsible for taking the lead on specific investigations of major significance to the Commissioner, which could include investigations of alleged abuse of individuals in OMRDD care, fraud, major theft, criminal activity, sexual harassment or misuse of state equipment or vehicles.
"Louie brings to the position a wealth of experience," said OMRDD Commissioner Diana Jones Ritter. "I look forward to having Louie on my team as he works to increase the efficiency and professionalism of the agency."
"I am elated and looking forward to the challenge," said Allen of his new position. "I am hopeful that some of the ideas I have can contribute to the overall success of the agency.
"My experience comes from working with federal and county governments," he continued. "I am excited to work with the Commissioner to convey the ideas and goals she has for the agency."
A highlight of Allen's career includes his most recent stint as chief of investigations for the Essex County Prosecutor's Office, where he oversaw a staff of 160 detectives.
Allen has a significant background in investigation, law enforcement and security administration. While with the FBI, he planned and directed numerous investigations and covert operations. He also planned and monitored security for large-scale events, including the Democratic and Republican National Conventions and the Calgary Winter and Korean Summer Olympic Games. Allen was responsible for planning and coordinating FBI security for the 1989 Presidential Inauguration.
He also has extensive management experience. In the past, Allen has managed annual operational and expense budgets of up to $8 million; orchestrated the design and relocation of field office facilities; and coordinated with property owners and contractors and monitored project budgets, to create safe, secure working environments.
In addition to his work with Essex County and the FBI, Allen worked with the Pittsburgh Police Department, first as a patrolman and then as a detective. He was also an officer in the United States Air Force.
Allen earned a Bachelor of Arts in Administration of Justice from the University of Pittsburgh in 1976 and took postgraduate courses in Public Administration at George Mason University in Washington, D.C. He earned a State of New Jersey Law Enforcement and Peace Officer certification in 2004.
Allen is a member of many professional and social organizations, including the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives; American Society for Industrial Security; County Detectives Association of New Jersey; New Jersey Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory and the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity.
Additionally, Allen is a past member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the New York State Association of Chiefs of Police and the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police.
-30-