Richard J. Solita is a retired Chicago police officer, whose first novel takes you along as he remembers the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s, while exposing the harsh realities of being a big city cop. 

The author transforms from a rookie to a veteran, as he patrols Chicago from some of the worst ghettos in the country to luxurious downtown residences. He worked Chicago’s south and west sides, gang-dominated communities, where one of the most successful units ever created by the Chicago Police Department worked to combat crime: the Gang Crime Division. 

This novel probes the political games played between police and city hall, which is as true in Chicago as it is in any large metropolitan area. Solita’s powerful book offers insights into the behind-the-scenes police maneuvering in administrative affairs. His book sidesteps today’s “political correctness” to accurately reveal the reality of the era. 

Solita’s gritty honesty as he educates readers about this most challenging profession, will make his book a page-turner that will be long remembered.

About the Author

Richard J. Solita now teaches criminal justice at two colleges in the Phoenix area. One is a full-time position and the other is adjunct. He spent over 20 years as a law enforcement officer in Chicago. His many assignments included 13 years as a gang homicide and robbery detective.