Richard Tornielli, Chief of the Reading Police Department is retiring after two decades of service to the city. Tornielli had many different roles within the department before becoming chief, most notably Captain and Bomb Squad Commander.
Tornielli became the city’s acting police chief on January 9, 2020 after the resignation of Chief Andres Dominguez. He was confirmed as chief by City Council on April 13, 2020. His last day will be Monday, July 31, 2023.
Mayor Eddie Moran released the following statement Saturday afternoon:
“When I was elected four years ago, among several issues I wanted to tackle, making the community safe was and still is my number one priority. Given recent events, I decided that we needed to move forward with new leadership in the police department. As such, the Chief and I agreed that a change of strategy was needed, and I graciously accepted his offer of retirement. On behalf of the City of Reading, I thank Chief Tornielli for his 22 years of service and wish him well in retirement.
After hearing from many people across the city who feel unsafe, I will make it a priority for my administration to do a nationwide search for a qualified applicant who can be visible in the community while helping my administration develop a safety plan to address growing concerns of crime within our city.
In the very near future, I’ll be appointing an interim police chief to lead the department while a search is conducted.
And finally, to the men and women of the Reading Police Department. I hear you, I am with you, and I am willing to do all I can to ensure that you feel valued and respected. I will continue to listen to your opinions on how we fight crime in the city and whom I choose to lead the police department in the future.”
