Wheeling swears in new chief of police

Wheeling honored its retiring police chief and welcomed his replacement Monday night in a packed village board chambers.

Outgoing Chief Bill Benson served the Wheeling Police Department for 29 years, becoming chief in 2010.

New Chief Jamie Dunne had been the top cop in Prospect Heights since February 2011. Prior to joining the Prospect Heights Police Department, Dunne served with Buffalo Grove Police Department for 30 years and finished his time there as deputy chief.

Dunne pledged to keep Wheeling residents safe.

"I'll do everything I can to continue the traditions that have been held near and dear that Bill has explained to me and that I've learned by working next to your community for last 35 years on one side or the other," Dunne said. "And to the members of the Wheeling Police Department, my goal is to make sure you men and women get home to your families every day."

Village President Dean Argiris proclaimed Jan. 5, 2016, as William Benson Day. Benson was also honored with a "Chief Benson Way" street sign.

"Not only were you our police chief, police officer, K-9 officer, but you were a friendly officer," Argiris said. "You continue to support ongoing fundraisers, you are there when people are in need."

Benson said he had been thinking about retiring for over a year and now is finally the right time.

State Reps. Elaine Nekritz, a Northbrook Democrat, and Carol Sente, a Vernon Hills Democrat, attended Monday's village board meeting to honor Benson.

"I don't usually come to the village board meetings and find a full parking lot, so chief, I think that's due to all the work and many years of dedicated service that you've given to the village of Wheeling," Nekritz said. "Congratulations and best wishes."