My neighbors in Niles,
As Mayor-Elect of the Village of Niles, I feel compelled to address recent events within the Niles Police Department, which are the subject of increasing attention in the media and the community. As you may have heard, the Village of Niles and the Niles Police Department are currently conducting a number of investigations into various matters. The departments handling these investigations are carefully following established policies and procedures when conducting their investigations, ensuring they are complete and accurate. As always, the Village of Niles cannot provide further specifics of ongoing investigations, in order to protect their integrity.
In light of the growing public concern, I have requested an independent third-party review of all ongoing investigations. This independent review will begin this week. Although internal investigations have been ongoing, and I have been assured by staff that the proper policies and procedures for investigation have been carefully followed, I am ordering the independent review to reassure the public.
Let me close by saying I appreciate the interest and patience of the public. As my administration believes in bridges, not walls, it is my job to bring people together and find common ground through trust and cooperation, not to stoke divisiveness. Informed and active citizens give strength to the foundation of a thriving community, and a house built on concrete stands longer that one built on sand. It is difficult to not immediately have complete answers and definitive findings when questions such as these arise, but please know that procedures are being followed, and we are protecting the integrity and accuracy of the investigations by not releasing incomplete information prematurely.
I am grateful for your trust, and look forward to continuing to unite and grow as a community in the years ahead.
Sincerely,
George D. Alpogianis Mayor-Elect Village of Niles
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