Roselle police chief to receive award from state commission

Roselle Police Chief James Kruger is the guy who does it all.

Handling dogs, conducting traffic stops and leading SWAT teams are just a few of his areas of expertise.

That's why the Illinois State Crime Commission will present Kruger with an award for Excellence in Law Enforcement Wednesday night at Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace.

"I consider the chief the Bo Jackson of law enforcement," said Jerry Elsner, executive director of Illinois State Crime Commission.

Kruger, who's been with Roselle's police department for two years, formerly served as Winfield's police chief and before that spent 20 years at Carpentersville's police department holding various positions.

While serving in Roselle, Kruger has implemented many new programs.

"I'm very honored and humbled to have been selected to receive this award," Kruger said. "I think any time one receives an award like this, it really goes to the credit of many people."

He credits the support of Roselle's elected officials, along with the hard work and support of the department.

"I would like to hope that in the time I've been here that I've made an impact," Kruger said. "Hopefully, I've demonstrated my sincere dedication to not only our organization, but the people in it and to our profession as a whole."

He said he'll cherish receiving the award.

"I think it just gives me the inspiration to continue working hard," Kruger said, "and indicates that there's still a lot to accomplish and that you can never stand still."

The crime commission will give out 24 awards this year.

"This is our way of saying thank you to these guys that make life very, very good for us," Elsner said. "It's people like the chief who make DuPage County the greatest place on the planet to live."