LaDon Reynolds Appointed Police Chief Of Oak Park

OAK PARK, IL --- Oak Park has appointed a new police chief to replace Anthony Anthony Ambrose, who retired in August. LaDon Reynolds, who served as interim police chief after Ambrose's retirement, has been selected as the village's newest police chief.

Reynolds, 47, has served on the police force for 24 years. His experience includes seving as a detective, a commander, a lieutenant, and deputy chief of police. He has also worked as an adjunct professor in Triton College's Criminal Justice Administration program.

Experience was just one of the factors that helped Reynolds be selected to replace Ambrose, who was interviewed along with three other candidates in the final round of the selection process. In a press release, Village Manager Karen Pavilcek said that Reynolds's "ethics and commitment to Oak Park to lead the men and women of the Police Department" also helped him stand out from other candidates.

During the careful selection process, Reynolds and other candidates were interviewed by residents and local students, along with village staff.

In a statement, Reynolds reflected on his 24 years with the Oak Park Police Department and looked ahead to his new role as police chief.

Reynolds said,

“Even before I first put on the uniform of an Oak Park Police Officer more than two decades ago, I knew I wanted to serve. But in those early days I saw myself on the streets as a patrol officer who eventually might become a detective and a sergeant. It would have been impossible to imagine this day back then. That’s why becoming chief of the department where I learned my trade is both humbling and exhilarating."

Reynolds will be sworn in on Jan. 8 at 6 p.m. during a public ceremony at Village Hall.

Image via Village of Oak Park