Robert William Appointed Glendale’s First Armenian Police Chief

GLENDALE – The City of Glendale has announced the appointment of Robert William as Chief of Police for the Glendale Police Department, following his successful service as Interim Chief since December 2025. He is the first Armenia-American to serve as the City’s Police Chief.

A lifelong Glendalian and dedicated public servant, Chief William brings more than 24 years of experience, leadership, and commitment to the Glendale community. His appointment follows a distinguished career within the Glendale Police Department that began as a Police Cadet before he was sworn in as a Police Officer in 2003. Over the course of his career, he has served in operational, investigative, administrative, and executive leadership assignments, earning a reputation as a thoughtful, forward-looking leader committed to both public safety and community trust.

Chief William’s executive leadership journey has been shaped by years of direct service alongside the department’s top leadership, including roles as Chief’s Adjutant, Public Information Officer, Police Captain, Deputy Chief, and Interim Chief. Through these assignments, he developed extensive expertise in strategic planning, labor relations, organizational leadership, community engagement, and municipal government operations.

Since joining the department’s Command Staff in 2020, Chief William has overseen each of the department’s sworn divisions and played a key role in advancing technology modernization, accountability initiatives, leadership development, operational improvements, and community partnerships. He was instrumental in developing and implementing the Glendale Police Department’s Strategic Plan, which continues to guide the organization through priorities centered on employee development, transparency, innovation, organizational excellence, and exceptional service to the community.

“I am proud to have become Glendale’s first Armenian police chief, but my goal was never to become the first Armenian police chief. My goal was to become the kind of police chief who can keep the city safe,” he said.

According to William, his Armenian identity has always played an important role in his life.

“I do not have an Armenian last name. My father is Assyrian and Armenian, and my mother is Armenian. At home, we spoke only Armenian,” the newly appointed police chief said.

As Chief of Police, William’s priorities include strengthening leadership at every level of the organization, investing in employee development and wellness, embracing innovation and emerging technologies, enhancing accountability and transparency, and continuing to build strong partnerships throughout the community. He has also cultivated strong relationships with regional public safety partners, helping ensure Glendale remains engaged in important countywide public safety initiatives and discussions.

A graduate of the FBI National Academy and the Senior Management Institute for Police, Chief William holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration.

Outside of his professional responsibilities, Chief William is a devoted husband and father of two sons. He is an avid hockey player who values teamwork, discipline, and perseverance, qualities that have defined both his personal life and career.