Rolling Meadows police chief retires early; successor expected in April

Rolling Meadows Police Chief Dave Scanlan retired last week, a few months earlier than first planned, city officials confirmed Thursday.

Scanlan's last day with the department was March 11. He originally planned to retire on May 11, said City Manager Barry Krumstok, but Scanlan, 57, wanted to retire early to spend time with family.

Scanlan joined the department in 1982. He was a tactical officer and gang specialist for 10 years before being promoted to sergeant. He was promoted to commander and then deputy chief before being named police chief in 2009.

Scanlan's retirement came the same day as Deputy Chief Mark Hogan's. Hogan served 28 years in the department.

Commander Bill Arneson has been promoted to acting chief until a new chief is hired, said Mayor Tom Rooney.

Rooney said the city council was surprised by Scanlan's early retirement and didn't get to wish him well and pass a proclamation in his honor before Scanlan left for vacation.

Rooney said they will celebrate the outgoing chief when he gets back in town.

The city council has already done two rounds of interviews of candidates, and it seems to have a choice in mind — Krumstok said the city is conducting a background check on one finalist from Illinois.

The new police chief is expected to be hired and to start next month.