Charles A. Guiliani Jr. Named Chicago Heights Police Chief

It was an emotional night for two longtime policemen in the council chambers of . 

Michael Camilli, who was still the top cop in the Heights just days before, was honored by Mayor David Gonzalez for his 36 years of service to the . He received a proclamation in which Gonzalez listed the many roles Camilli has held in the department, from patrolman to chief. 

"Thank you for serving the City of Chicago Heights with honor, loyalty and dedication," Gonalzez said in the proclamation.

Between standing ovations, Camilli gave a brief speech acknowledging all the police officers that worked under him.

"You can't do anything by yourself," Camilli said. "You have to have the gentlemen do it with you. Together we've done it for the community."

At the end of the night, Gonzalez announced his appointment to replace Camilli as the Chicago Heights Chief of Police, Commander Charles A. Guiliani Jr. The council supported the appointment unanimously. 

City Clerk Lori Wilcox swore Guiliani in as chief immediately after the vote. Afterwards, Guiliani thanked his wife and children, as well as Camilli, who he said he considers a friend more than a mentor.

"From this day forward, when you look in that mirror, you left this place better than you got it," Guiliani said to Camilli. "Know that."

During his speech, Guiliani made an honest promise to residents of Chicago Heights on behalf of the police department.

"We will keep trying to meet the demands of the city," Guiliani said. "We may fail every once in a while, but we will keep trying."

Charles Guiliani has been with the Chicago Heights Police Department since 1986, holding several titles, including deputy chief and, most recently, operations commander. He has a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and graduated from .

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