After decades with Mishawaka Police, Chief of Police Witkowski retires; replacement named

MISHAWAKA — The City of Mishawaka announced the retirement of Chief of Police Ken Witkowski Jr. from his position on Aug. 19.

In a "bittersweet" statement, the city said Witkowski's "unwavering dedication and leadership have left an indelible mark on our community" in the more than 30 years that he's served the police department. Witkowski's role within the department has varied as he demonstrated remarkable strategic planning and community policing skills to growing and modernizing the department under his leadership, a press release said.

Effective immediately, Witkowski will continue to serve Mishawaka as its director of code enforcement, succeeding Joe VanNevel, who retired, a city statement said.

Mishawaka Mayor Dave Wood expressed his gratitude for Witkowski's many years of service on the police force.

"Ken Witkowski has been a pillar of strength and integrity for the Mishawaka Police Department," Wood said in a statement. "His leadership has transformed our police force and strengthened our community in immeasurable ways. We are fortunate to have him continue serving our city in his new role."

The police department's current Division Chief of Services Alex Arendt will serve as the new police chief and continue to build on the strong foundation laid by Chief Witkowski, Wood said in a press release.

In Arendt's dedication to maintaining the high standards of his predecessor, he plans to enhance community relations, ensure transparency, and implement innovative technologies to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the police force, a press release said.

Additional changes in the police department include the retirement of Dan Gebo, who served as the assistant chief of the MPD Detective Bureau. He'll continue working for the city as a School City of Mishawaka resource officer, a press release said, and investigator Sgt. Timothy Wiley will assume Gebo's position.

Arendt and Witkowski will be sworn into their new positions during a Board of Public Works meeting at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 27 in the Council Chambers at Mishawaka City Hall.

Email Tribune staff writer Camille Sarabia at csarabia@gannett.com .

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: After decades with Mishawaka Police, Chief of Police Witkowski retires; replacement named