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Kankakee Police Chief Announces Retirement
Effective Friday, June 16, City of Kankakee Police Chief Robin Passwater will retire. Chief Passwater quoted, “It has been a pleasure to serve the citizens of Kankakee as a police officer for the past 33 years, however, it is time for me to move on to another chapter of my life.”
Additionally, Chief Passwater commented that he “thanks all the officers I have served with during my career. It has been a privilege to work with such a fine group of public servants.” He also “thanks the City Council and the residents for their support of the law enforcement community.”
Mayor Curtis commented, “While I’m saddened for Chief Passwater to not be a part of the city administration team moving forward, I’m excited for the Chief to pursue his next goals. I wish him well in his retirement, especially after his long and dedicated career.”
Mayor Curtis also noted, “Chief Robin Passwater was exactly who I needed as a Police Chief to start my term as Mayor. He stepped into a tough position and led the department with honor, professionalism, and created a culture and morale that was needed. He implemented technology, along with creating strategic and dedicated units to not only reduce violence, but also set the standard for the future of our police department.
Under Chief Passwater, the number of active officers increased from 57 to 67. Chief Passwater also oversaw the hiring and training of 22 new police officers during a two-year period. As a result of this, the city has a diverse, well-trained, and professional police department dedicated to protecting the citizens of not only the City of Kankakee, but all of Kankakee County.
Mayor Curtis continued, “I’m very proud of Chief Passwater and what he did for my administration, the citizens of Kankakee, and for the men and women of the Kankakee Police Department. I’m forever grateful and have a life-long friend, who I will miss seeing and talking to daily at work.”
The City of Kankakee has developed a plan to maintain the continuity of the police department, which will be implemented effective June 16. The plan will be announced to the public at the City Council meeting on Monday, June 5.
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