DeBartolo receives Law Enforcement Award

ISBA President John G. O’Brien presented the Law Enforcement Award to Ralph DeBartolo on May 27 at the 3rd District Courthouse in Rolling Meadows. DeBartolo is chief of the Cook County Sheriff's Department's Office of Court Services. This award was created to recognize sworn law enforcement officers for conduct that promotes justice and to distinguish those individuals whose service to the public brings honor and respect to the entire criminal justice system. The award is given sparingly to recognize those who truly excel in the field of law enforcement. Chief DeBartolo is receiving the award for his tireless efforts to improve security measures and emergency procedures in the Rolling Meadows courthouse, as well as his volunteer efforts to help increase awareness and respect for the local Italian-American community. Since joining the Sheriff’s Office in 1989, he has distinguished himself in providing safety and security for local judges, court personnel, inmates and the public. He streamlined operations and significantly increased the collaboration between the Sheriff’s Office and the legal community. DeBartolo was one of the founding officers of the Italian-American Police Officers Association and has served as its chairman and president. Under his leadership, the organization grew to more than 700 police officers and others who supported the membership and its charitable causes. He currently serves on the board of the Italian-American Labor Council and is an active member of Easter Seals and is a 4^th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He was nominated for the award by James Morici, a member of the governing board of the Illinois State Bar Association, who wrote in his nomination that “Ralph DeBartolo has served the public and law enforcement community for the last 53 years through outstanding leadership, noble public service and commitment to others.”