Mishawaka Police Chief Witkowski retires, Arendt to be sworn in as new chief Aug. 27

MISHAWAKA, Ind. -- The City of Mishawaka announced on Monday that decades-long police chief Ken Witkowski Jr. has officially retired, and current Division Chief of Services Alex Arendt has been promoted to take his place.

"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," Mayor Dave Wood said in a statement. "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."

While Witkowski will be officially leaving the department, he will not be leaving the city.

According to the Mayor's office, Witkowski will take on the position of Director of Code Enforcement, effective immediately.

In his new role, Witkowski will be succeeding Joe VanNevel, who recently retired after many years in the position.

"Ken Witkowski has been a pillar of strength and integrity for the Mishawaka Police Department," Mayor Wood said. "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."

City officials say new chief Arendt, who has a degree in Criminal Justice and advanced training in law enforcement leadership, has been a vital part of the department, "embodying a deep commitment to public safety and community engagement."

"Alex Arendt is a proven leader who understands the importance of both innovation and tradition in law enforcement," said Mayor Wood. "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."

The mayor's office says that Arendt plans to "enhance community relations, ensure transparency, and implement innovative technologies to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the police force."

Chief Arendt and Director Witkowski will be officially sworn into their new positions at the Board of Public Works meeting next Tuesday, at 10 a.m. in the Board of Public Works Conference Room at Mishawaka City Hall.

"Chief Witkowski's tenure has been defined by his steadfast commitment to public service and law enforcement," Mayor Wood said. "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."

Mishawaka Police Department Investigator Seargent Timothy Wiley was also promoted to Assistant Chief of the MPD Detective Bureau, a role formerly held by Dan Gebo who has retired from the detective bureau but will continue to serve the community as a School City of Mishawaka Resource Officer.