Oak Brook, embattled police chief parting ways

Oak Brook trustees unanimously approved a “separation agreement” with embattled police Chief Thomas Sheahan, but so far no one's talking about any details of the pact.

“I can't disclose any of the terms,” Village Manager David Niemeyer said.

The Daily Herald will file a Freedom of Information Act request for the agreement.

Sheahan has been at the center of controversy since February, when the police union announced a vote of no confidence in his leadership.

The village board's action Tuesday comes less than a week before Gopal Lalmalani is sworn in as village president, replacing John Craig. Three trustees — two new members and incumbent Gerald Wolin — also will be sworn in May 2.

Why the hurry to approve the agreement before the new elected officials are seated?

“That's a good question,” Wolin said, weighing his words carefully. “This is a recommendation that was brought forth and I thought it was a good idea. I really would rather not comment on it.”

Sheahan is reviewing the pact with his attorney.

“He's got to decide if he's going to sign it,” Niemeyer said.

Earlier this month, Sheahan said he was considering taking advantage of an early retirement incentive program for village employees — and it has nothing to do with the no-confidence vote.

A Fraternal Order of Police representative said the village's police department suffers from a “glaring morale problem” due to Sheahan's “arbitrary and selective” discipline, prompting trustees to call for an outside investigation into department matters.

Sheahan was hired in Oak Brook six years ago, but has more than 25 years in law enforcement, including in Chicago.