Mayor Wood Announces the Retirement and Reassignment of MPD Chief Ken Witkowski

Today marks a bittersweet moment for the City of Mishawaka (and Mayor Wood personally) as we bid farewell to our honorable Chief of Police, Ken Witkowski Jr., who will officially retire today after an extraordinary, 36-year career at the Mishawaka Police Department including 20-years as Police Chief.   Indeed, he is the longest serving Chief in Department history and has led the Department through many changes, transforming it into the modern force that it is today.  The Department has advanced by every measure under his leadership, and Mayor Wood believes it to be the finest of any department, anywhere!

Chief Witkowski has been an integral part of the Mishawaka Police Department for over three decades.  His unwavering, character, dedication and leadership have left an indelible mark, not only on the Department, but our community as a whole.  Chief’s tenure has been defined by his steadfast commitment to public service, law and order.

Over the years as he ascended through the ranks, he demonstrated a passion for community policing and working effectively with the public.  He brought that passion with him into the Chief’s role along with an extraordinary vision for the future of the Mishawaka Police Department where he played an instrumental role in the growth and modernization of the department.

Chief Witkowski’s legacy is defined by his dedication, leadership and the profound impact he has had on both the department and the community. His contributions have set a high standard for excellence and service, and his retirement is a moment of both celebration and reflection for all who have had the privilege to work with him.

Chief Witkowski’s retirement from the Mishawaka Police Department marks the end of a significant era in local law enforcement. After 20 years as Chief and a total of 36 years in law enforcement, his departure is a notable transition for both the department and the community he served.

As you know, Mayor Wood never lets good people get away!  While Chief Witkowski will be stepping down from his role as Chief of Police, Mayor Wood is pleased to announce that he has reassigned him.   Effective immediately, Ken Witkowski will take over the position of Director of Code Enforcement, succeeding Joe VanNevel, who retired after many years of outstanding service and leadership last Friday.