New Des Plaines Police Chief Named

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.

May 1, 1968

Brian Wolf contributed to this report.

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