It was easy for the new Clarendon Hills police chief to step right into the job.
Ed Leinweber has been a police officer in the village for nearly 24 years, beginning his service in June 2000. He became a sergeant in 2013 and has experience in patrol, juvenile issues, investigations and evidence duties.
Leinweber is now taking over for Paul Dalen, who retired Tuesday Feb. 20, and served as chief for just over six years and will stay on as a part-time public safety director for both the police and fire departments. Prior to being promoted to chief, Dalen, who grew up in Clarendon Hills, worked as an officer in the village for 24 years, including 17 as a sergeant, making for a 30-year career in town.
The appointment of Leinweber as chief marks the fourth consecutive time someone from within the Clarendon Hills department has been named as top cop.
“I’m grateful to have the opportunity to serve as chief,” Leinweber said. “After 24 years here, I feel I have a very good familiarity with the department and the community. I know I have a lot to learn, but having been here as I have certainly is a benefit.”
Village Manager Zach Creer said there was no external search process before naming Leinweber as chief.
“As administrative sergeant, he was the next in line for chief,” Creer said. “In general in police departments, it is best for culture and morale to conduct internal promotions, otherwise there are no opportunities for rank and file employees to advance their careers.
“That being said, Public Safety Chair/Trustee (Mark) Peterson, (Village) President (Eric) Tech and myself took time to properly vet the appointment, and this was only done because Sgt. Leinweber is a strong candidate.”
Creer said Leinweber has a deep understanding of, and connection to, the Clarendon Hills Police Department.
“Given his tenure here, he has served as training officer for onboarding every current officer,” Creer said. “Ed is a huge part of the culture of our department, which is one of professionalism, transparency, and accountability.
“Ed also is a highly respected member of the police department and has earned the respect of the community.”
Dalen said Leinwebier definitely has earned being appointed as police chief.
“Ed has been a trusted member of the police department for nearly 25 years,” Dalen said. “He is a natural leader, who has served all these years with humility and integrity.”
Chuck Fieldman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
