West Dundee police chief to retire

When Andrew Wieteska left the insurance industry to become a West Dundee police officer, he dreamed of an impactful career devoted to serving the community.

Twenty-one years later, he's retiring from the department's top position with a sense of accomplishment.

Leaving law enforcement for a job in the private sector was a difficult decision for Wieteska, whose last day is Feb. 8.

He was hired as a patrol officer in 1998 and rose through the ranks before being named interim chief in 2010. He was sworn into the permanent role 13 months later.

"It's a tough job, and it's a round-the-clock job. You're never really off duty," said Wieteska, a West Dundee resident. "It's hard to leave. I stewed on it for a long time ... and it just felt like the time was right."

Under Wieteska's leadership, he said, the department has improved "leaps and bounds" in terms of school safety - one of his top priorities as chief. Various safety initiatives have been implemented at local school districts, he said, and special training has been provided to officers, as well as district officials and staff members.

Additionally, Wieteska said, the department has updated its policies to remain relevant and strengthen its relationship with residents.

"Chief Wieteska takes great pride in his department and community," Village President Chris Nelson said in a statement. "He has represented the (village) and the West Dundee Police Department in the best light, and has earned the utmost respect and appreciation from those within his department, the village board and the community for his public services and a job well done."

Village Manager Joe Cavallaro also credited Wieteska for the department's high level of service, its positive interactions with the community and the professional growth of its employees.

West Dundee is expected to hire a recruitment firm to search, both internally and externally, for Wieteska's replacement, officials said. Lt. Anthony Gorski will serve as interim chief in the meantime.

Wieteska says he's confident the department will carry on with the same level of integrity and professionalism after he's gone.

"It's the chief's job to make sure you play by the rules and treat people right, and we've always done that," he said. "I'm particularly proud of that."