Oak Brook finds new police chief in Roselle

Oak Brook looked all over the country for a new police chief — and found the top candidate practically next door.

Roselle Chief James R. Kruger, 50, has been named the new chief in Oak Brook. He starts Nov. 28.

Kruger has more than 27 years in law enforcement, including two decades in Carpentersville, where he worked his way up from patrol officer to police commander; two years as Winfield’s chief; and five years in Roselle.

Kruger was chosen from a field of 140 candidates in a selection process that started in June. The village board interviewed seven candidates and Village President Gopal Lalmalani chose Kruger for the $125,000-a-year post.

Oak Brook officials noted Kruger’s expertise, knowledge and ability to work with various groups, Village Manager David Niemeyer said.

“He really just impressed everyone, “ Niemeyer said.

Kruger steps into a job that has been open since former Chief Thomas Sheahan resigned in May. The embattled former chief had received a vote of no confidence in his leadership from union officers.

Kruger said he is looking forward to being “a positive change agent.”

He wants to create a strong team environment where the staff “can really excel and perform to their highest potential. I understand there is a great talent (pool).”

Kruger also will be leaving his post as director of campus safety and emergency management at Judson College in Elgin, a position he’s held since 2009, but plans to continue teaching on a limited basis.