Asbarez: Robert William Becomes First Armenian-American Glendale Police Chief

Glendale Police Chief Robert William

The City of Glendale 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 becomes the first Armenian-American to helm the Glendale Police Department.

“I am proud to have become the first ethnic Armenian police chief of Glendale. However, my goal was never to become the first Armenian police chief. My goal has been to become a police chief who can keep the city safe,” William said in an interview with USArmenia Television.

According to him, his Armenian identity has always played an important role in his life. “I do not have an Armenian surname. My father is Assyrian and Armenian, my mother is Armenian. In our home, we only spoke Armenian,” the newly appointed police chief noted.

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.

“Chief William represents the very best of the Glendale Police Department,” said City Manager Roubik Golanian. “Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity, and the ability to navigate complex challenges while advancing the department’s long-term vision. I am confident that under Chief William’s leadership, the Glendale Police Department will continue to set the standard for professionalism in public service.”

“Chief William’s appointment reflects the strength, professionalism, and exceptional talent within the Glendale Police Department,” said Mayor Ardy Kassakhian. “As someone who has dedicated his entire career to serving Glendale, he understands our community, our values, and our expectations. His leadership has already helped shape the department’s future, and I am confident Glendale will continue to thrive under his direction. His appointment is also a historic milestone for our city, as he becomes Glendale’s first Armenian American Police Chief—a reflection of both his individual merit and the rich diversity that has long been one of our community’s greatest strengths.”

“30 years ago, you could count the number of Armenian American officers in the Glendale police force on one hand. A lot of people have worked very hard to worry about change since then. And we see the success of their efforts as today we not only have over 30 sworn officers of Armenian, American descent but we continue to attract new recruits who are eager to serve this community.”

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.

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