Sergeants Zurick, Gaztambide and Cargola sworn-in at City Council meeting
Three West Chicago Police Officers were sworn-in as Sergeants this month at City Council meetings. The promotions bring an increased level of responsibility for John Zurick, Joe Gaztambide, and Anthony Cargola, as noted by Police Chief Michael Uplegger. “This is a very important and demanding position in the Department,” he said. The accomplished officers each bring unique skill sets to their new position.
For 24 years, John Zurick has served as a West Chicago Police Officer after having served in the United States Army and the United States Army National Guard. During his time with the Department, he worked in patrol and investigations as a Detective. He is also a Forensic Evidence Technician and DuPage County Fire Investigation Task Force member. Zurick has received numerous police accommodations, a Life Saving Award, a Medal of Valor Award (issued by DuPage County Police Association), and a Medal of Honor (issued by the Governor of the State of Illinois).
Joe Gaztambide has been a West Chicago Police Officer for 14 years, after having served in the United States Army and is a Military Police veteran of Desert Storm. During his time with the Department, he has worked in patrol and investigations as a School Resource Officer . He is also an Evidence Technician, Too Good for Drugs Instructor and a Field Training Officer. Gaztambide has received numerous police accommodations, and was a recipient of a Life Saving Award.
A Police Officer for more than 20 years, with 17 of those being in West Chicago, Anthony Cargola has worked in patrol and investigations as a Detective. He is a member of the DuPage County Major Crimes Task Force, a member of Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC), and a member of the Illinois Homicide Investigators Association. Cargola has received numerous Letters of Commendation throughout his career. He is the recipient of a Meritorious Conduct Award and several Achievement Awards/Certificates from the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists for D.U.I enforcement while working in patrol.
“The level of experience and expertise that our new Sergeants bring to this position will be a tremendous asset to our community,” said Chief Uplegger.