Villa Park ousts police chief

With no immediate explanation, Villa Park officials have removed Police Chief John Heidelmeier from his job.

The village and Heidelmeier reached “an amicable resolution” Tuesday to end his tenure as chief and his employment with the village, according to a statement from Village Manager Richard Keehner’s office.

The statement did not provide any explanation of why Heidelmeier was removed but said both parties believe the agreement is in their best interests.

Deputy Chief Bob Budig said he is leading the police department until an interim chief can be named, which he expects to happen sometime next week.

Budig said Heidelmeier restarted a tactical officers unit and a citizens’ police academy during his time as chief and helped the department get more involved with the community.

“While Chief Heidelmeier was here, he did put some things into place that really took the department forward, and we hope to continue those things,” Budig said.

Budig directed questions about why Heidelmeier was removed to the village, but he said the former chief had the department’s support.

“He was well-liked, well-respected,” Budig said. “All or most officers felt that he was a very positive influence on the department and they’re sorry to see him leave.”