(KNX 1070 NEWSRADIO) Some LAX police officers stationed at podiums adjacent to TSA security checkpoints have engaged in unprofessional behavior, ranging from using their cell phones while on duty to make lengthy personal calls; to reading newspapers and magazines; and, even working on laptop computers, according to documents obtained by KNX as part of a four month investigation into security and safety at one of the nation's busiest airports.

A June 28th email to LAX police supervisors by then Assistant Chief of Police Frank Fabrega says, "these complaints are embarrassing to the organization and erode the professionalism of airport police."

A memo from Fabrega to the rank and file the same day threatened that "personnel who fail to comply with the Department's police will be subject to progressive disciplinary action."

LINK: Memo Sent by LAX Assistant Chief of Police to his Staff (pdf file)

KNX has learned that, on one occasion, on July 1st, a TSA director complained that an LAX police officer on duty was working on a crossword puzzle.

Fabrega was ousted from the department within days of writing his June 28th memo, numerous sources say.

Airport officials would not comment on the reasons for Fabrega's departure.

L.A. City Councilman and former cop Dennis Zine says it is a big deal when someone of the rank of assistant chief writes the type of memo that Fabrega wrote for his police troops.

"When you have a member of management, a high level of management, issue this statement, this directive, this piece of paper that says, 'there's a problem,' you need to respond to that appropriately and quickly," Zine said.

LAX executive director Gina Marie Lindsey claims her staff could not find evidence of any passenger or TSA complaints concerning the behavior of LAX police.

"We've got very effective supervision and management of our people," Lindsey said in an interview with KNX.

In previous reports, KNX documented several cases of on-duty LAX police officers being sent to near- by cities to do routine police work there; and, numerous emergency corridors and exits at the airport that were obstructed by equipment and debris.

As a result of that report, L.A. City fire officials dramatically increased the inspection rate of the airport's nine terminal buildings, as did airport operations.

The L.A. city mayor has pledged a "blue ribbon" panel to investigate safety and security at LAX, following calls to have a third party audit by a City Council committee.