Tinley Park appoints new division police commander amid questions about past article

The Village of Tinley Park on Dec. 16 appointed Frederick Meline as division police commander, effective Jan. 5, 2026, and the board swore him into office by roll-call vote.

Meline, introduced during the meeting, outlined 31 years of law enforcement experience including supervisory and command roles and a master’s in business administration. In brief remarks after his selection he addressed media coverage, saying an "outdated Sun Times article" being recirculated was "based on inaccurate information, unfounded assumptions, attributed to anonymous sources" and stating, "these claims are without basis." He added that he welcomed any review of his disciplinary history and said he retired from his prior post "in good standing."

President Michael W. Glotz and the board moved and seconded the appointment; the clerk administered the oath of office. Following the swearing-in, staff and department leaders praised Meline’s experience: the village manager said his 31-year career and awards made him an exceptional selection, and multiple department heads welcomed him as an addition to the Tinley Park Police Department.

The appointment was handled in open session with a recorded roll-call vote that the clerk announced as carried. The agenda item listed the effective date and summarized Meline’s background; any disciplinary records or outside review he referenced were not addressed further during the meeting.

Next steps: Meline’s official start date is Jan. 5, 2026, and the department will proceed with integration and handover as described by village staff.