Today marks a bittersweet moment for the City of Mishawaka as we bid farewell to our honorable Chief of Police, Ken Witkowski Jr., who has officially retired after an extraordinary career. Chief Witkowski has been an integral part of the Mishawaka Police Department for over three decades, where his unwavering dedication and leadership have left an indelible mark on our community.
Chief Witkowski's tenure has been defined by his steadfast commitment to public service and law enforcement. When he first assumed the role of Chief, he brought with him a passion for community safety and a vision for the future of the Mishawaka Police Department. Over the years, he ascended through the ranks, demonstrating remarkable strategic planning and community policing skills. His leadership has played a pivotal role in the growth and modernization of the department.
While Chief Witkowski will be stepping down from his role as Chief of Police, we are pleased to announce that he will not be leaving the City of Mishawaka. Effective immediately, he will take on the position of Director of Code Enforcement, succeeding Joe VanNevel, who retired after many years of successful leadership.
Mayor Dave Wood expressed his gratitude for Chief Witkowski’s service, stating, "Ken Witkowski has been a pillar of strength and integrity for the Mishawaka Police Department. 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."
Taking up the mantle as Chief of the Mishawaka Police Department is Alex Arendt, who has been promoted from his current role as the Division Chief of Services.
Alex has been a vital part of the department, embodying a deep commitment to public safety and community engagement. With a degree in Criminal Justice and advanced training in law enforcement leadership, Arendt is well-prepared to lead the department into the future.
Mayor Wood also commented on the promotion of Chief Arendt, saying, "Alex Arendt is a proven leader who understands the importance of both innovation and tradition in law enforcement. I have full confidence that he will continue to build on the strong foundation laid by Chief Witkowski, ensuring that Mishawaka remains a safe and welcoming place for all."
Chief Arendt has expressed his dedication to maintaining the high standards set by his predecessor while also bringing new strategies to address the evolving challenges in law enforcement. He plans to enhance community relations, ensure transparency, and implement innovative technologies to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the police force.
The City of Mishawaka is also proud to announce the promotion of Investigator, Seargent Timothy Wiley to Assistant Chief of the MPD Detective Bureau, a role formerly held by Dan Gebo. Gebo, who has retired from the detective bureau, will continue to serve the community as a School City of Mishawaka Resource Officer.
Chief Arendt and Director Witkowski will be officially sworn into their new positions at the Board of Public Works meeting on Tuesday, August 27th, at 10 a.m. in the Board of Public Works Conference Room at Mishawaka City Hall.
We invite the community to join us in celebrating this new chapter for the Mishawaka Police Department.
For more information, please contact: Matthew Lentsch Executive Director of Development and Governmental Affairs City of Mishawaka Phone: (574) 258-1635 or (574) 535-8679.
