READING, Pa. – “There’s a lot to be said about your perseverance,” Reading City Council President Donna Reed told the city’s new police chief Monday night.
Council unanimously appointed Javier Ruiz as the city’s top cop after he was promoted from deputy to acting police chief last month. Former Police Chief Elias Vasquez stepped down in September for what he said were personal reasons.
Ruiz brings over 25 years of experience with Reading Police, and is known for a strong record of community engagement.
In an earlier statement, Ruiz commented, “Together, we are on a strong path toward achieving our main goal, which is making Reading a safe and welcoming city for our residents and guests alike.”
“He’s been a lifelong resident, never moved out [yet] could’ve chose[n] to do so,” Mayor Eddie Moran said of Ruiz last month. “He continued his career as a police officer here for 28 years so he’s highly respected in the community.”