Lake Forest Police Chief Karl Walldorf is set to retire next month as he has accepted a new role within Lake County’s judicial system.
The 19th Judicial Circuit Court has announced that Walldorf, who has led Lake Forest’s police department since 2016, will be its new executive director.
“I am deeply honored to have been selected as the new executive director of the 19th Judicial Circuit. Working alongside the respected judges and dedicated staff, I am eager to continue serving the residents of Lake County with such a talented and committed team,” Walldorf wrote in a statement.
Lake County Chief Judge Daniel Shanes wrote Walldorf emerged as the top choice for executive director after a nationwide search.
“Karl has experience, strong managerial skills, and an exceptional understanding of our judicial system. He recognizes the importance of building and maintaining trust and confidence in the courts with the public, justice partners, and employees,” Shanes said as part of a statement.
Walldorf will collaborate with the 41 judges in the Lake County courts and oversee approximately 250 employees, according to Lake County Court spokeswoman Kasey Morgan. Other duties include working with the Lake County board members and administrators from the other circuits as well as law enforcement and justice officials.
Walldorf is set to start his new role on April 29. He succeeds Todd Schroeder who retired in January.
He will be leaving Lake Forest after joining the force in 1994.
Lake Forest Mayor Stanford “Randy” Tack issued a statement complimenting Walldorf.
“Chief Walldorf has served the Lake Forest Police Department with distinction for over 30 years,” Tack wrote. “He steadily rose through the ranks, beginning his Lake Forest career as a patrol officer and most recently having served as chief for nearly eight years. The Lake Forest Police Department has a well-deserved reputation in our community and throughout the region for high performance and professionalism, which is a testament to the legacy Chief Walldorf leaves behind.”
At the time of the announcement, Walldorf was on vacation and unavailable for further comment.
City spokeswoman Dana Olson wrote in an e-mail Deputy Chief Mike Lange will serve as Acting Chief of Police upon Walldorf’s departure as city officials start the process of finding a permanent successor
