2023 OP Winter Resident Newsletter

Timothy J. McCarthy Honored with Building Dedication TIMOTHY J. MCCARTHY HONORED

On October 23, the Village of Orland Park dedicated the newly named building, the Timothy J. McCarthy Police Department. This momentous occasion was marked by the unveiling of a new police department sign bearing McCarthy’s name, a decision unanimously approved by the Village Board during their June 5 meeting. “Chief McCarthy diligently served the Village for 26 years,” said Mayor Keith Pekau. “His hard work and dedication elevated the Orland Park Police Department to the top-rated law enforcement agency in the state. It is an honor and a privilege to be able to recognize his efforts with the naming of the police department building.” Chief McCarthy assumed the role of Chief of Police of the Orland Park Police Department in May 1994, following an illustrious career with the U.S. Secret Service. His impressive background includes eight years assigned to the Presidential Protective Division in Washington D.C. and 14 years as a criminal investigator in Chicago. On March 30, 1981, McCarthy distinguished himself while protecting President Ronald Reagan when he was shot in the line of duty during an assassination attempt. McCarthy recovered from serious injuries and returned to work. “Chief McCarthy consistently prioritized the safety and well-being of Orland Park’s residents,” remarked Chief of Police Eric Rossi. “His visionary leadership led to the transformation of our police force through the implementation of new training programs, cutting-edge technology, and an exceptional staff. These efforts have positioned us as the finest police force in Illinois.” Under Chief McCarthy’s guidance, the nation’s first LEED Gold certified police station was

successfully constructed. This 62,000 square-foot facility not only excels in technology and safety but also sets a benchmark for sustainability and efficiency. Notable features include porous bricks in the parking lot, a “white roof” that conserves energy by reflecting light, and a 2,000-gallon rainwater collection and recycling unit. Chief McCarthy’s dedication extended beyond the physical infrastructure. He actively lobbied on law enforcement issues, championed school safety and security, automated the Orland Park Police Department, implemented numerous community policing initiatives, and introduced the use of NARCAN to save lives during heroin overdoses. In 2017, under Chief McCarthy’s leadership, the Department became the first agency internationally to complete the International Association of Chiefs of Police’s One Mind Campaign Pledge, enhancing the interaction between law enforcement and individuals affected by mental illness. Throughout his remarkable 48-year career in law enforcement, Chief McCarthy received numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious NCAA Award of Valor in 1982 for his bravery in saving former President Ronald Reagan from an assassination attempt. In 2016, he was recognized as the inaugural recipient of the Chief of Police of the Year Award from the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, a testament to his exceptional leadership and service. The dedication of the Timothy J. McCarthy Police Department Building stands as a lasting tribute to Chief McCarthy’s outstanding contributions to the Orland Park community. It serves as a reminder of his unwavering commitment to public safety and his relentless pursuit of excellence.

| Winter 2023 | Orlandpark.org

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