Dear Mr. Chairman and Senator Durbin,
I am writing on behalf of the members of the Fraternal Order of Police to express our strong support for the nomination of Robert Cekada to serve as the next Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
Mr. Cekada is a dedicated public servant with over 30 years of experience in law enforcement, including more than two decades at the ATF. His career began on the front lines as a police officer with the New York City Police Department, where he focused on anti-gang operations, and continued with the Plantation Police Department in Florida, serving in patrol and on the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team. During his tenure at ATF, he has held critical leadership positions, including Special Agent in Charge of the Miami and Baltimore Field Divisions, Executive Assistant Director for Operations, and currently serves as Deputy Director. In these roles, he has demonstrated his commitment to combating violent crime, disrupting illegal firearms trafficking, and fostering strong partnerships with local, State, and Federal law enforcement agencies.
The ATF plays a vital role in supporting State and local law enforcement in combating serious crimes. Under Mr. Cekada’s leadership, we are confident that the agency will continue to prioritize the safety of our officers and communities while respecting the rights of law-abiding citizens. His extensive field experience ensures he understands the challenges faced by officers on the ground, and his proven track record of collaboration with State and local law enforcement, as well as stakeholder groups like the FOP, makes him eminently qualified to lead the ATF effectively.
On behalf of the more than 382,000 members of the Fraternal Order of Police, I urge the Committee on the Judiciary to advance Mr. Cekada’s nomination swiftly. If I can provide any additional information in support of Mr. Cekada, please do not hesitate to contact me or Executive Director Jim Pasco in our Washington, D.C. office.
Sincerely,
Patrick Yoes
National President