Skokie Police Chief Barry Silverberg will retire in early May 2011, Village Manager Albert J. Rigoni announced on January 14, 2011.
According to Rigoni, "Chief Silverberg has served the Skokie Police Department with distinction for almost 35 years, the last six of which as the Chief of Police."
Silverberg, a life-long Skokie resident, was promoted to Police Chief in July 2005. He served as Deputy Chief from 2001 to 2005 and, prior to that, served in management positions in the Investigations and Patrol Divisions.
Silverberg joined the Skokie Police Department as a patrol officer in 1976 following an honorable discharge from the United States Army. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from National Lewis University, and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy.
Rigoni also announced that upon Silverberg's retirement, he will appoint Deputy Police Chief Anthony Scarpelli as Skokie's new Police Chief.
"Deputy Chief Scarpelli has provided exemplary service to the Village and the Skokie Police Department since 1982 and is deserving of the promotion. He knows the Police Department operations, is familiar with each member of the Department and has a thorough understanding of the community," Rigoni stated.
Scarpelli earned a Master of Arts in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration degree from Western Illinois University, and holds a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Criminal Justice from DePaul University. He joined the Skokie Police Department in 1982, having served as a patrol officer, investigator, sergeant, lieutenant and commander until his appointment to Deputy Chief in 2005.
Scarpelli has also received numerous professional awards during his career, including a Chief's Award of Valor.
"The leadership transition from Chief Silverberg to Chief Scarpelli will be smooth," commented Rigoni. "Both men are dedicated to the community, and have the respect of the Police Department staff and community leaders. I am pleased to congratulate Chief Silverberg on his retirement after a long, dedicated career and also to congratulate Deputy Chief Scarpelli on this well-deserved promotion. "
