The five-month search for a new chief has concluded, Michael Bartholomew, city manager, announced in a press release Friday. The Des Plaines Police Department will have its first police chief from outside the department since the department was formed more than a century ago.
William Kushner, a former Chicago police lieutenant who more recently served as police chief in Berwyn, and then Lakemoor, is set to begin his new role in Des Plaines on Sept. 4, when he is sworn in at a city council meeting.
“I am extremely pleased that the selection process concluded with the appointment of Chief Kushner,” Bartholomew stated. “He is an outstanding choice for our department. I have every expectation that he will distinguish himself as an effective leader both in the community and for the men and women in the police department. I look forward to Chief Kushner joining our management team.”
Earlier:
Kushner has 35 years of law enforcement experience, including 29 years with the City of Chicago, according to the press release. Kushner served in a number of progressively responsible positions at the Chicago Police Department until 2006, when he left his lieutenant and watch commander position to serve as police chief in Berwyn until 2010. Kushner then served as police chief in Lakemoor, and will hold that position until Aug. 24.
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Acting Police Chief Mike Kozak has served as interim chief since January when Police Chief James Prandini retired.
Here’s more information about past Des Plaines police chiefs. Prior to 1899, Des Plaines was a one-constable village. If you have information to add to our research, please share it in the comments section below.
Police Chiefs Joined Police Department Appointed Chief Resigned James Prandini 1980 Aug. 4, 2003 Jan. 1, 2012 James Ryan 1983 Aug. 7, 2000 Aug. 4, 2003 Robert Sturlini 1967 June 1994 September 2000 John StormOctober 1989 June 1994 Joseph Kozenczak 1962 May 1985 October 1989 Leroy Alfano 1954 July 1, 1978 April 30, 1985 Arthur Hintz 1940
May 1, 1968
June 31, 1978 Amasa Kennicott 1937 May 1957 May 1, 1968 Jack Wigham May 1949 May 1957 Howard Becker November 1940 1949, remained captain Ernest Drexler 1931 1938 Died Nov. 9, 1940 Howard Becker1933 1938 Christian Wegner 1923 1927 1933 Richard Hammer 1916 Wilson Ockerby 1906 1911 Constables Record of Employment Butcher Fritz 1894
Ira Barchard 1870 to 1890
J.H. Ohlerking 1870
Brian Wolf contributed to this report.
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This is not accurate statement City made absolutely certain that new chief will do excellent job Perfect choice Congratulation City of Des Plaines