Arlington Heights Police Chief Nick Pecora To Retire After 44 Years

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — Arlington Heights Police Chief Nick Pecora will retire in November, concluding a 44-year career with the village.

Pecora began working for Arlington Heights in 1982 as a public service officer and became a sworn police officer in 1986. Over the decades that followed, he served as a patrol officer, detective, sergeant, commander and deputy chief before being appointed chief in 2019.

His tenure with the village spanned major changes in both Arlington Heights and law enforcement, including the introduction of the village's first computer systems, the fire and rebuilding of Arlington International Racecourse, the Great Recession, construction of the village’s current police station and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under Pecora's leadership, the Arlington Heights Police Department received its sixth national accreditation in 2026 through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies.

"Chief Pecora's legacy is one of deep integrity, service, and devotion for this community," Village Manager Randy Recklaus said. "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."

The village said it is beginning a competitive search immediately for Arlington Heights' next police chief.

Officials said additional information about the recruitment process will be posted as it becomes available at the village's careers website.