Primate Attends Swearing-In Ceremony Of Glendale Police Chief Robert William

On Thursday, July 23, 2026, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, attended the swearing-in ceremony of Glendale's 21st Chief of Police, Robert William, held at the Glendale Police Department. The Primate was accompanied by Archpriest Fr. Manoug Markarian as civic leaders, law enforcement officials, family members, and community representatives gathered to mark this historic occasion.

In a congratulatory letter addressed to Chief William, Archbishop Derderian commended his distinguished career and groundbreaking appointment as the first Armenian-American to lead the Glendale Police Department. "Your historic appointment as the first Armenian-American to lead the Glendale Police Department is a milestone of profound significance, reflecting not only your distinguished career and unwavering commitment to public service, but also serving as an inspiration to countless members of our community," the Primate wrote. He further expressed confidence that Chief William's "integrity, wisdom, and steadfast leadership will continue to strengthen the trust between the Police Department and the diverse communities it serves, while preserving Glendale's well-earned reputation as one of the safest cities in the United States." Archbishop Derderian concluded by invoking God's abundant blessings upon Chief William as he begins his new ministry of public service and leadership.