GLENDALE, Calif. — Robert William has spent his entire adult life protecting Glendale.
He grew up in the city, graduated from Glendale High School, joined the Glendale Police Department as a police cadet, and built a 24-year career serving the community. On Tuesday night, that journey came full circle when the Glendale City Council unanimously confirmed William as the city’s next chief of police.
The appointment follows six months of service as interim chief and marks a historic moment for the city. Mayor Ardy Kassakhian noted William becomes Glendale’s first police chief of Armenian American descent, a milestone in one of the nation’s largest Armenian American communities. But Kassakhian said the significance extends beyond making history.
“It’s not as important to be the first at something as it is to make sure that you’re not the last,” Kassakhian said. “When we open doors, we open them for the young children who are watching.”
For William, however, the moment was less about personal achievement than public responsibility.
“I live in Glendale. I grew up in Glendale. My wife and I are raising a family here,” William told the council. “Simply put, Glendale is my home.”
His roots in the city have shaped his philosophy of policing.
“The one lesson that has continued to be the common theme is that public safety is really about people,” he said. “It’s about protecting what is most important to them. It’s about trust. It’s about making sure everyone feels protected and respected, regardless of their background.”
William began his career with the Glendale Police Department in 2003 after serving as a police cadet. Over the next two decades, he worked in patrol, investigations, public information, administration and executive leadership, eventually serving as police captain, deputy chief and interim chief. He also helped develop the department’s strategic plan, emphasizing employee development, innovation, transparency and community engagement.
His commitment to Glendale was tested early in his career.
In 2008, William was shot in the chest while responding to assist another officer during a foot pursuit involving an armed parolee. His bullet-resistant vest saved his life. After recovering, he returned to duty and continued serving the city.
Councilmember Vartan Gharapetian recalled that moment while congratulating the new chief.
“He took a bullet for our city many years back, and he didn’t flinch,” Gharapetian said. “He came back and went back to work.”
City leaders praised William’s experience and his deep understanding of Glendale.
“I’ve known the chief for over two decades,” Councilmember Ara Najarian said. “He knows what Glendale is all about. He carries those values. He is sensitive, he is kind, he is compassionate. Firm but fair.”
Councilmember Dan Brotman said William’s appointment reflected broad confidence across the department and community.
“There’s been huge support from the community, from the command staff, from the rank and file, the Police Officers Association,” Brotman said. “It was an easy decision.”
Councilmember Elen Asatryan called the packed council chambers a reflection of William’s impact over the years.
“It’s a testament to your work and what you’ve brought to the city over the years,” Asatryan said. “With you at the helm, it’s only going to get bigger and better.”
City Manager Roubik Golanian said William has demonstrated the leadership necessary to guide one of California’s most respected police departments.
“Robert understands the City of Glendale’s values, our expectations, and our commitment to providing exceptional public service,” Golanian said. “I’m confident that under Chief William’s leadership, the Glendale Police Department will continue to set the standard for professionalism, innovation and service.”
Looking ahead, William said his priorities include strengthening leadership throughout the department, embracing innovation, investing in employee wellness and continuing to build relationships throughout the community.
He also emphasized that public safety is a shared responsibility.
“My commitment to you is to listen to you, to engage with you, and to make you feel like you’re part of the public safety solution in Glendale,” he said.
Although William’s wife and two sons were unable to attend the ceremony because of their children’s basketball and hockey practices, he said their absence served as an important reminder.
“First and foremost, I’m a dad. I’m a husband,” William said. “Regardless of what my title is, what they have going on in their lives is just as important as mine.”
As applause filled the council chambers following his appointment, William reflected on the significance of the moment.
“I don’t look at this moment as an achievement,” he said. “I look at it as a responsibility.”
For the hometown officer who began his career as a cadet and nearly gave his life protecting the city, that responsibility now includes leading the department—and the community—into its next chapter.
