Contributed photo
Contributed photo
After a career of nearly 20 years with the Westmont Police Department, James Gunther became the village’s new police chief, sworn in at a ceremony during the Village Board’s Sept. 29 meeting.
Most recently, Gunther served as deputy chief for the past six years. Prior to serving as deputy chief, Gunther also performed in numerous capacities for Westmont, including patrol officer, sergeant, detective, investigations division commander and administrative chief.
Gunther earned a bachelor's in law enforcement administration from Western Illinois University in Macomb and a master's in criminal social justice from Lewis University in Romeoville. Additionally, he received training at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, in 2011 and has won many awards and commendations during his career.
“We are excited to have Jim accept this new role,” Mayor Ron Gunter said. “I have had the opportunity to work closely with Jim over the last several years when he served as the deputy liquor commissioner and I feel he has a good balance between leadership and the necessary people skills to perform this job. I look forward to working with Jim for years to come.”
After the swearing-in, Gunther joked that he was not related to Mayor Gunter because of the letter “H” and thanked all present for their continuing support as he takes on his new role.
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