Woodstock police sergeant earns Rising Shields of Law Enforcement award

WOODSTOCK – In 14 years with the Woodstock Police Department, Sgt. Tino Cipolla has led the police explorer program, overseen department and field training and volunteered for charity events.

All were factors in him being selected for the Rising Shields of Law Enforcement award, and why Woodstock Police Chief Robert Lowen said he nominated Cipolla.

Cipolla, 35, was one of three recognized for the award. Winners were selected by the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police from nominations around the state of officers younger than 45 who represent progressive law enforcement leaders.

Cipolla said he was "taken aback," when hearing he was honored, and said he gives credit to Lowen and Woodstock Deputy Police Chief John Lieb for allowing the department to be successful.

The Woodstock Police Department did not have a police explorer program before Cipolla started leading it in 2012, he said. Now there are 25 explorers from 14 to 21 years old who participate in the program that Cipolla said helps bridge the gap between law enforcement and youth.

“It really shows police in a different light, and a true light really, on what law enforcement is about,” Cipolla said.

Through the program, students learn about the law enforcement field and other skills, including interviewing and filling out a resumé and application. Graduates have gone on to join the U.S. military and pursue education in law enforcement fields, Cipolla said. Another passion of his is training, Cipolla said, and it can be challenging keeping himself and officers up to speed with the evolving field.

Despite his busy schedule with the department, Cipolla also participates in events including Special Olympics, the Polar Plunge and Shop with a Cop.

“By the very nature of our positions, I think we have a duty to give back to the community,” Cipolla said. “We’re in a very special position within law enforcement as first responders in general, and we have to do more than just our jobs.”

Cipolla will now be adding a new task to his job, as he was recently selected to be a McHenry County Sheriff’s SWAT team officer. Lieb said Cipolla being chosen for the team shows how he is not only a good trainer, but he also can execute his skills.

“I enjoy all of it, so I make time for it,” Cipolla said.