2 Mokena Police Officers Receive Promotions

MOKENA, IL - Two members of the Mokena Police Department were recently recognized for receiving rank promotions. Chris Carlson has been appointed to the newly-created second commander position while Joseph Ballantine was promoted to replace Carlson as one of the department's four sergeants.

"I am very excited for both Commander Carlsonand Sergeant Ballantine, but I am equally excited for the police department and the village," Mokena Police Chief Steve Vaccaro said. "We have two top-notch police officers in key management positions, which will mean tremendous things for the police department and the community."

Carlson has been with the Mokena Police Department since 1993 and achieved the rank of sergeant in 2003. Ballantine became a police officer in Mokena in 1993 and most recently served as a detective.

Both were recognized at the July 23 Mokena Village Board meeting and are now serving in their new positions.

Vaccaro said both officers "have done all the right things" in earning their promotions.

Photos: Chris Carlson (left) and Joseph Ballantine (right) / Courtesy of the Village of Mokena