Springfield police chief announces retirement after 27 years of service

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Chief Ken Scarlette announced his plans to retire from the Springfield Police Department this June.

Scarlette has been with SPD for 27 years.

"After much discussion, thought, and prayer with my family and friends, I have made the decision to announce my retirement. To the former and current police officers and staff of the Springfield Police Department, I want to thank you for your tireless dedication to the Springfield community. I am so blessed to have worked beside you over the past 27 years," said Chief Scarlette.

He took on the role in 2022, with plans to tackle gun violence in the community.

"For the past three years as Police Chief, it has been my unwavering goal to bridge gaps, build and develop trust amongst law enforcement and the community, lead the agency into the technological future, and maintain a thriving workplace for close to 300 employees. As with any critical leadership role, my tenure as Chief has been met with tumultuous incidents, tragedies within the community, various levels of uncertainty, and major change in the law enforcement industry at the local, state, and federal levels. Through it all, I have remained committed to serving with integrity and ensuring our department meets the highest standards of excellence." Chief Scarlette also expressed his gratitude to the city’s leadership, both past and present. "I want to thank Mayor Misty Buscher, past and present elected officials and council members for your dedication to the City of Springfield and for the support you have shown me and my staff at the Springfield Police Department."

The city of Springfield and the department plan to release more information on the leadership transition in the coming weeks.