Scofflaws beware: Bridgeview’s newest full-time officer is watching

By Steve Metsch

Paul DeSilva has worked as a full-time police officer for two other departments, so he brings plenty of experience to Bridgeview.

And he brings a special flair for writing tickets.

“Officer DeSilva has done a spectacular job. Last month he issued 212 tickets. We hope that trend continues,” Mayor Steve Landek said.

DeSilva, who had been working as a part-time officer, was appointed a full-time officer when the Bridgeview Village Board met on Dec. 21.

The vote was unanimous.

“We brought him in a few months ago as a part-timer. We wanted to see how he was going to fit here. He wound being up a great fit,” Police Chief Ricardo Mancha said.

Most of the 212 tickets were issued to speeders and drivers who ignored stop signs, Mancha said.

“Furthermore, aside from the tickets, I’ve received some comments on phones and on Facebook (that were) very complimentary. He gets out of the car. He talks with people. He says ‘hi’ to the kids. Everything we need him to do, he’s doing,” Mancha said.

DeSilva, who is in his 50s, previously worked as a police officer in Maywood and La Grange Park, Mancha said.

His hiring could not come at a better time.

“One of our new hires is no longer with us. He said he thought long and hard and he left. Things happen,” Mancha said.

“DeSilva just happened to be here and he’s doing a great job. If he continues to do a great job, it’ll be perfect,” Mancha added.

DeSilva’s first day as a full-time officer will be New Year’s Day, Landek said.