09/17/2026
Congratulations! Thank you for 44 years of service to the community of Arlington Heights!
The Village of Arlington Heights announces that Police Chief Nick Pecora will retire in November, concluding an extraordinary 44-year career dedicated to serving and protecting the Arlington Heights community.
Chief Pecora began his career with the Village in 1982 as a Public Service Officer and became a sworn Police Officer in 1986. Over the four decades that followed, he served in nearly every capacity within the Police Department, including Patrol Officer, Detective, Sergeant, Commander and Deputy Chief, before being appointed Chief of Police in 2019.
Chief Pecora’s career spans a remarkable period of change in both Arlington Heights and the profession of law enforcement. During his tenure, he witnessed the introduction of the Village’s first computer systems, the fire and rebuilding of Arlington International Racecourse, the impacts of the Great Recession, the construction and opening of the Village’s award-winning Police Station, and the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under Chief Pecora’s leadership, the Arlington Heights Police Department has continued to strengthen its reputation as a highly professional, community-focused law enforcement agency. In 2026, the Department earned its sixth national accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), reflecting its longstanding commitment to nationally recognized standards, accountability and professional excellence.
Village Manager Randy Recklaus expressed appreciation for Chief Pecora’s service, stating “Chief Pecora’s legacy is one of deep integrity, service, and devotion for this community. Arlington Heights is a safer and stronger place because of his leadership. We are grateful for his contributions and wish him the very best in his retirement.”
As Chief Pecora prepares to conclude his service in November, the Village is beginning a thorough and competitive search for Arlington Heights’ next Chief of Police immediately. With the Police Department’s strong reputation and longstanding commitment to professional and community-focused policing, the Village anticipates attracting a highly qualified pool of candidates. Additional information regarding the recruitment process will be shared as details become available at www.vah.com/careers.