Former Glazier, 16-Year Veteran of Police Force Honored

Police Officer Patrick Cillo, a 16-year veteran of the Fort Lee Police Department, has been named the “Chief’s Award” recipient for the month of January, police said.

The award, which was started by Police Chief Thomas Ripoli shortly after he took over as chief, recognizes officers for their “outstanding contributions” to the department.

Born and raised in Fort Lee, Cillo attended Madonna School and Fort Lee High School, from which he graduated in 1978. He attended Drew University and Bergen Community College after that.

Before joining the Fort Lee Police Department, Cillo worked for 13 years in the construction industry as a glazier with Glaziers Local Union #235. 

Cillo attended the New Jersey State Police Academy in Sea Girt in 1995. At the Academy, he received the General Norman H. Schwarzkopf Award for the highest performance in Physical Fitness. Since graduating from the Police Academy, Cillo has been assigned to the Uniform Patrol Division in Fort Lee.

“He has received numerous awards and commendations throughout his career for his actions in the line of duty,” according to a police spokesperson.

Cillo has been married for 27 years and has two adult children: a 24-year-old daughter and a 20-year-old son.

Cillo said he was honored that Ripoli chose him for the award.