Metra Police Chief Joseph M. Perez is this year’s recipient of the Hector Jordan Lifetime Achievement Award from the Hispanic Illinois State Law Enforcement Association (HISLEA).
Chief Perez, who joined Metra in May 2014 following a distinguished career with the Illinois State Police, was honored by HISLEA at its 28th Annual Recognition Banquet Saturday, Sept. 13 at the Chicago Marriott O’Hare.
The award is presented annually to an individual who through the course of his/her duties has continuously lived up to the spirit and values of HISLEA. The award is in recognition for a lifetime of bravery, contribution, sacrifice and perseverance that have resulted in the advancement of Hispanics in law enforcement, according to the organization.
“We at Metra couldn’t be more pleased to learn of Chief Perez receiving this honor,” said Metra Executive Director/CEO Don Orseno. “The respect of his peers evidenced through his selection for this award is a reaffirmation that he is the right person to guide and transform the Metra Police Department in their mission to ensure the safety and security of riders, staff, assets and infrastructure.”
The award is named in honor of Special Agent Hector Jordan who was hired in 1956 as the first Hispanic police officer in Aurora, Ill., and was recognized throughout his career for his outstanding performance as a police officer, particularly in the area of narcotics enforcement. Jordan left the Aurora Department to become a supervisory special agent with the Federal Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, the precursor to today’s Drug Enforcement Agency. Jordan was about to become the regional director of the Bureau’s office in Madrid, Spain when he was attacked by a gang of men as he came to the aid of a fellow officer. He died of his injuries on Oct. 14, 1970 at age 38.
HISLEA was founded in 1987 and its membership and executive board are comprised of Hispanic law enforcement officers from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. HISLEA publicly advocates policies and programs that promote the hiring, appointment, and advancement of Hispanics at all levels in the criminal justice system.
Metra Police Chief Joseph L. Perez poses with the Hector Jordan Lifetime Achievement Award that he received Saturday, Sept. 13, 2014 from the Hispanic Illinois State Law Enforcement Association (HISLEA) at the association's annual banquet in Chicago.