BREAKING: Robert William Makes History as Glendale’s First Armenian Police Chief

BREAKING: In a moment of pride for Glendale’s Armenian community and the city at large, Robert William, a lifelong Glendale resident who built his career from the ground up within the department, was officially appointed on Monday, June 23, as the 21st Chief of Police of the Glendale Police Department.

Chief William succeeds former Police Chief Manny Cid, who led the department from 2023 to 2026.

Home to one of the largest Armenian communities outside of Armenia, Glendale’s new police chief is widely known for his longstanding relationships with the city’s diverse neighborhoods and his commitment to community engagement.

William’s journey with the department began more than two decades ago as a student volunteer and Police Cadet. He was sworn in as a police officer in 2003 and steadily rose through the ranks, serving in a broad range of operational and administrative assignments.

His executive leadership experience expanded significantly after he was promoted to Police Captain in March 2020. During Chief Cid’s tenure, William led each of the department’s three major bureaus — Field Services, Investigative Services, and Specialized Services — overseeing patrol operations, criminal investigations, and specialized public safety functions while gaining extensive managerial and operational experience.

In September 2025, William was appointed Deputy Chief of Police, serving as the department’s second-in-command. In that role, he oversaw the station’s daily operations and supervised the Professional Standards Bureau, Internal Affairs, and the Training Bureau.

He was named Interim Chief of Police in January 2026 and led the department for nearly six months before receiving his official appointment on June 23.

Throughout his career, William has spearheaded initiatives aimed at strengthening Glendale’s public safety capabilities and has developed expertise in organizational strategy, labor relations, interagency coordination, and community engagement.

A graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy, William also completed the Senior Management Institute for Police through the Police Executive Research Forum. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Management and a master’s degree in Public Administration.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, William has remained deeply involved in Glendale through youth programs, schools, and civic organizations. He is also a husband and father of two sons and has often emphasized leading with compassion, fairness, and a clear vision for the future.

For many in Glendale, William’s appointment represents more than a leadership transition. It is the elevation of a hometown officer who grew up in the community, dedicated his entire career to serving it, and now assumes leadership of one of Southern California’s most prominent police departments in a city where the Armenian community has long played an integral role in civic life.

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