Wheaton names new police chief

A 32-year veteran of the Wheaton Police Department is set to take over as head of the force when Chief Mark Field retires.

Division Cmdr. James F. Volpe, who was appointed by City Manager Don Rose, will step into the chief's post next week. He will be sworn in at 3 p.m. Monday in the council chambers of Wheaton City Hall, 303 W. Wesley St.

Volpe served as a patrol officer for 10 years before working his way up to shift commander/sergeant in 1993. In 2001, he was promoted to commander/lieutenant, a position he held through 2009, when he was named division commander of investigations.

Volpe will be paid $144,000 a year.

He received a bachelor's degree in education from Illinois State University in 1980 and a juris doctoral degree from DePaul University Law School in 1992. He has served as an instructor for the Suburban Law Enforcement Academy and as a Northwest Multi-Regional Training adjunct instructor.

Field is retiring Saturday after holding the title of chief since March 1996. He worked for the police department for 24 years.

On Monday night, the city council and the DuPage Chiefs of Police Association recognized Field for his service.

"All I ever wanted to do was be a good police officer," Field said. "I've tried to serve the best that I can and I hope that was enough for this community because this community has done so much for myself and my family. I hope at least in your eyes that I've earned your respect and I appreciate everything that my friends have done for me."