Des Plaines police chief announces retirement

Des Plaines police chief Jim Prandini has announced his retirement from the department’s highest post, effective Jan. 1 after 31 years of service.

Acting Village Manager Jason Slowinski said Prandini wrote him a letter last week to say he was leaving.

“I think he was thinking about it,” Slowinski said. “He was also recovering from back surgery so I think that played into his decision.”

Slowinski said Prandini has been on leave since the middle of November to recover from the operation.

Deputy Police Chief Mike Kozak was named acting police chief until a permanent appointment can be made. Slowinski said the final decision could take between four and six months.

Prandini was appointed chief of police in 2003. Prior to his current position he also served as a police officer, detective, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, deputy police chief and acting chief of police.

In his retirement letter Prandini wrote, “I have faithfully served the citizens of Des Plaines as a police officer for over 31 years and would like to thank everyone in the city who supported the police department during my tenure as chief for the past eight years.”

Slowinski said Prandini will be missed.

“He was a professional guy, very personable, well-liked in the community,” he said. “He did a nice job serving the city of Des Plaines. I wish him all the best.”