Demitrous Cook Sworn In As New Evanston Police Chief

EVANSTON, IL — Police Chief Demitrous Cook was sworn as the new police chief of Evanston in Wednesday morning in an emotional ceremony before a crowded City Council chamber.

City Clerk Devon Reid administered the oath of office, and a representative of the South Suburban Association Chiefs of Police, flanked by Evanston's three deputy chiefs, read a proclamation from Saint Xavier University Police Chief Jack Touhy declaring Dec. 20, 2018 as Demitrous Cook Day.

Evanston's new chief of police then received his badge from his mother.

In brief remarks after taking the oath and donning his new badge, Cook thanked former Evanston chiefs Eddington and Frank Kaminski, as well as former colleague retired Det. Carlos Mitchem for preparing him for the job.

"I'd like to thank the city of Evanston, the people in the city of Evanston, for trusting me," Cook said. "I'm going to do the best job that I can do."

Cook spent 26 years with Evanston police after beginning his law enforcement career with the Northwestern University Police Department in 1981. After achieving the rank of deputy chief, he departed in 2010 to become chief of police in south suburban Glenwood.

"I'm glad to be here," Cook said, his voice quavering.

Cook succeeds former Chief Richard Eddington, who departs after more than 44 years of police service and 11 years atop the 166-officer department. Cook described Eddington as a great friend and mentor a Dec. 11 press conference announcing his appointment.

The new chief is due to appear at a community meeting Jan. 9 at the Levy Center.

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