Superintendent Cline's Final PAX 501

When I began this journey back in 1968, I never imagined it would have taken me here. Now as I prepare to leave the Chicago Police Department, I am filled with some sadness but also a deep sense of accomplishment. I have been truly blessed to be a part of the greatest police department in the world.

I am humbled that I was given the chance to lead the department during these past four years. I have been supported by countless people and will always remember the great dedication of the men and women who have answered the call to serve and protect the citizens of this city.

What we have accomplished in these past few years is nothing short of remarkable. Working together we have reduced homicides to save 698 lives as compared to the previous four years. Due to our violence reduction initiatives, shootings are reduced to an all time low, with 9,917 fewer aggravated assaults and batteries involving firearms. Together these data signify that there have been over 122,000 fewer victims of Part I Index Crime. We have saved these potential victims and their families the heartaches crime causes.

The credit and my gratitude go to each and every member of this department. Without your hard work and commitment this success could not have occurred. You have missed countless family meals, worked through holidays and sacrificed to make this city safer. You are the reason we have succeeded. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed. Other departments have visited us from around the world to learn from our success. It is crystal clear who made this happen. It is you, the rank and file members of the Chicago Police Department.

When I started back as a Cadet, I was fresh, young and impressionable. I quickly learned that the bond, the glue that holds this department together, is the commitment of the people of our police department. For these past 38 years you have been my second family. We have worked together through the night, ate, celebrated, laughed a lot, and sadly buried our own. Since I started my career, I have been surrounded with some of the most talented people I have ever met. As I now leave, I am satisfied that these bright people will continue to move us forward.

Finally, I wish you all good health and much success in your careers. And as always, at the end of your tour of duty, go home safely to your family, as I now go home to mine.

Philip J. Cline

Superintendent Chicago Police Department

Comments

[Barb]

Thank you, Superintendent Cline for the outstanding job you've done over the past 38 year for the citizens of Chicago.

You've set the bar high, coming to this position with a formidable background of undercover street experience and educational expertise.

Good luck and thank you for your persistent goal to improve the great City of Chicago.

Thank you Phil Cline to your great work

[Renee]

Thank you for your service and building the police memorial. Enjoy your retirement.