Thelma Vega joined the Chicago Police Department in December 2005 and has dedicated nearly 20 years to public service. She was promoted to Sergeant in March 2017 and Lieutenant in August 2022. Throughout her career, she has served in various roles, including in the Patrol Division, the U.S. Marshals Great Lakes Fugitive Task Force, the Communications and News Affairs Division, and the City-Wide Community Safety Team.
A first-generation Mexican American, Thelma’s family hails from Guanajuato, Mexico. She grew up in Summit, Illinois, and is a graduate of Argo Community High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and sociology from Northern Illinois University. She is a graduate of the National FBI Academy and the D.C. Police Leadership Academy at the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, D.C. Additionally, she holds a Graduate Certificate in Criminal Justice Education from the University of Virginia, where she is currently pursuing a Master of Public Safety.
In 2022, Thelma earned a Chicago/Midwest Emmy nomination as an Executive Producer for a short film about a fallen officer. She is also a proud member of the Chicago Latina Foundation, an organization committed to empowering Latinas through advocacy, community, leadership, education, and mentorship.
Outside of law enforcement, she is an avid traveler who has visited over 25 countries and has a deep appreciation for music and the arts.
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