Oak Forest Police Chief Set to Retire

OAK FOREST, IL – After seven years of service, Oak Forest Police Chief Greg Anderson has announced his retirement, effective September 18.

“From day one, Greg was a change agent in the police department,” said Mayor Hank Kuspa. “He always asked the tough questions to get us thinking and keep us moving in the right direction. His vast experience in law enforcement helped to enhance many of our procedures and introduce some innovate programs. We are grateful for his service and wish him well on his future endeavors.”

As police chief, Anderson "embraced a customer-centric philosophy in an effort to improve the quality of police services delivered to the community."

He worked to improve online communication with residents; established resident-focused programs, including Lock It or Lose It, Project Lifesaver and vacation watch; and utilizing crime data and mapping for problem areas.

Anderson’s efforts to improve department policies, procedures and operations ultimately led to the department receiving a certificate of accreditation award from the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police in 2015, the city said in a release.. State accreditation provides formal recognition that an agency meets or exceeds general expectations of quality in the field.

“I am very proud to have had the opportunity to serve the residents of Oak Forest and work with the people within the police department,” Anderson said. “I am at a loss to say just how proud I am of our department and all of the accomplishments and successes we have had while I have been chief. We have one of the best departments in Illinois and an extremely professional staff. I hope that the department continues that forward momentum. After 36 years in law enforcement it is time for me to pass the torch.”

The City Council will honor Anderson at its meeting on September 13 at 8 p.m. at City Hall.