Controversial Hawthorn Woods cop is back on patrol

A former Hawthorn Woods police sergeant who said he was fired for seeking a unionized position is back working for the village, now as a patrol officer.

"We've reached an agreement with Hawthorn Woods," said Ronald Cicinelli, attorney for Officer Michael Viramontes. "He's back at work now."

Viramontes claimed he was fired July 12 of this year after requesting a demotion from a sergeant position to one of patrol officer. The village, however, says he quit.

His attorney said the 37-year-old father of two wanted to be part of a recently formed union and could not because of his supervisory position.

Viramontes, 37, filed a complaint Aug. 14 in Lake County court seeking to return to the force.

"Mr. Viramontes was supporting the unionization of the police officers. This upset the village, in particular, Mayor (Keith) Hunt immensely," Cicinelli said in September. "(The firing) was more or less retaliatory."

Hunt confirmed Viramontes' return to the force but said there was no retaliation for supporting the union.

Hunt said the village tried to bring Viramontes back to the police department even before the August complaint was filed.

"We initiated discussions long before that," Hunt said. "I've been trying to solve it since day one."

Cicinelli said Viramontes was given half of his back pay back and all of his other benefits were restored in full.

"We worked that out pretty good for him," Cicinelli said.

He added that Viramontes' only goal was to return to doing the job he loved.

"That's what he wanted and that's what was agreed," he said. "It was a mutual decision."

Hunt, however, disagreed that the officer was given back pay.

"I can tell you he was not given back pay," Hunt said, but added that the terms of the settlement are secret. "What (Cicinelli) told you is incorrect."

Cicinelli also represents the newly formed Metropolitan Alliance of Police, Hawthorn Woods Chapter #483, in the 11-member squad's complaint before the Illinois Labor Relations Board against the village.

Cicinelli said that process will go to arbitration soon but he believes a contract can be worked out before then.

"That's still outstanding," he said. "I'm optimistic that we can get a result prior to arbitration."