Glendale Swears In Armenian-American Robert William as Police Chief Surrounded by Family, Colleagues and Community

The City of Glendale officially swore in Robert William as the 21st chief of the Glendale Police Department on Wednesday — the start of a new chapter for the city’s law enforcement agency after more than two decades of service within its ranks.

The Armenian Report attended the swearing-in ceremony, where city leaders, law enforcement officials, clergy, family members and community members gathered to celebrate William’s appointment.

William, a lifelong Glendale resident, was appointed interim police chief in December 2025 following the retirement of former Chief Manny Cid. In June, the city selected him as the department’s permanent chief after serving in the interim role for six months.

His career with the Glendale Police Department began as a student volunteer and police cadet before he was sworn in as a police officer in 2003. Over the past 24 years, he has served in operational, investigative, administrative and executive leadership positions, including chief’s adjutant, public information officer, police captain, deputy chief and interim chief.

During the ceremony, William reflected on the path that led him to the department’s highest leadership position.

“Life has a remarkable way of preparing you long before you realize it that it’s happening,” William said.

Speaking directly to the officers of the Glendale Police Department, he pledged to prioritize their well-being and success.

“The public often sees the badge. I see the sacrifice behind it,” William said. “As your chief, my first responsibility will always be to you, to make sure that you have the leadership, support, training, equipment, and resources that you need to succeed.”

He also reaffirmed the department’s mission, saying its commitment is to “protect Glendale, preserve trust, and maximize our potential.”

William shared that earlier in his career he survived an officer-involved shooting that nearly changed the course of his life.

“I certainly did not think that I would become the chief of police,” he said. “There were many people here who saw things in me that I had not recognized myself.”

Looking ahead, William said one of his goals is to prepare future leaders within the department.

“Now it’s my time to fully invest in the next generation, to leave this department stronger than I found it, and to make sure that one day, a young person standing where I once stood has the same opportunity to grow, to lead, and to serve.”

Glendale City Manager Roubik Golanian praised William’s leadership and confidence in his vision for the department.

“Chief William represents the very best of the Glendale Police Department,” Golanian said. “Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity, and the ability to navigate complex challenges while advancing the department’s long-term vision.”

Mayor Ardy Kassakhian said William’s lifelong connection to Glendale makes him uniquely qualified to lead the department.

“As someone who has dedicated his entire career to serving Glendale, he understands our community, our values and our expectations,” Kassakhian said.

Since joining the department’s command staff in 2020, William has overseen each of the department’s sworn divisions and helped advance technology modernization, accountability initiatives, leadership development and community partnerships. He also played a key role in creating the department’s strategic plan, which focuses on employee development, transparency, innovation and organizational excellence.

As chief, William said his priorities include strengthening leadership throughout the organization, investing in officer wellness and professional development, embracing new technology, increasing transparency and accountability, and continuing to build strong partnerships across the community.

William is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and the Senior Management Institute for Police. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice management and a master’s degree in public administration.

Outside of law enforcement, he is a husband and father of two sons. An avid hockey player, William said the values of teamwork, discipline and perseverance have shaped both his personal life and his career.

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