Elgin police commander finalist for Rockford police chief job

Elgin police Cmdr. Dan O'Shea is among three finalists for the police chief job in Rockford.

O'Shea said he's meeting with Rockford city officials Tuesday morning and with residents at an open house-style event in the afternoon. Assessment interviews that will include responses to police scenarios will take place Wednesday, he said.

"I'm very happy about getting in the final three and I look forward to the process this week," he said.

The two other finalists are Rockford Police Assistant Deputy Chief Doug Pann and Racine, Wisconsin, Police Chief Arthel Howell, the Rockford Register Star reported.

O'Shea, 48, has been in law enforcement for 27 years and has worked in Elgin since 1999.

There are many similarities between Elgin and Rockford, he said. Both are diverse river towns with urban traits and undergoing a revitalization process, O'Shea said.

"(The job) intrigues me," he said. "The city of Elgin has prepared me well to move into a chief's position. It's highly encouraged by (Elgin Police) Chief Jeff Swoboda and by the city of Elgin always looking to further your career.

"I like Rockford. I'm in Rockford quite frequently. I think I could help be part of their transformation."

In a post on the Elgin Police Department's Facebook page, Swoboda said, "While this would certainly be a loss for Elgin, Rockford would be lucky to have (O'Shea)."

Former Rockford Police Chief Chet Epperson retired in November after he was appointed to a federal consent decree team that monitors the New Orleans Police Department.

Ian Linnabary, secretary of the Rockford Board of Fire and Police Commissioners, did not return requests for comment.