KANKAKEE, Ill. – After an impressive three decades of dedicated service, Robin Passwater, the esteemed Police Chief of Kankakee, will retire from his post. Stepping up to fill his shoes is Deputy Chief Christopher Kidwell, who will assume the role as Passwater’s interim successor.
The official appointment for Kidwell’s new position will be sought during the upcoming city Council meeting on Tuesday, June 20th. Mayor Chris Curtis will request the council’s consent and confirmation, paving the way for Kidwell’s ascension.
While some members of the City Council advocated for a nationwide search to explore external candidates, Mayor Curtis firmly believes that Kidwell’s experience and the respect he has garnered from his fellow officers make him the ideal choice to maintain the continuity of the community. Kidwell’s tenure with the Kankakee Police Department spans over 30 years, during which he has served in various capacities, showcasing his versatility and commitment to law enforcement.
The decision to appoint Kidwell highlights the city’s confidence in his leadership skills and his deep understanding of the local community’s needs. By choosing an internal candidate, Kankakee aims to ensure a seamless transition and uphold the strong bond between the police force and the residents they serve.
Kidwell’s extensive experience, combined with his familiarity with the city’s unique challenges and opportunities, will undoubtedly contribute to his success in this new role. As the newly appointed Police Chief, Kidwell will be tasked with upholding the highest standards of safety, justice, and community engagement.
Kankakee expresses its gratitude to Chief Robin Passwater for his commendable service and wishes him a fulfilling retirement. With Deputy Chief Christopher Kidwell stepping into the role, the city remains optimistic about the future of law enforcement and the continued safety and well-being of its residents.
