A Message from Chief Doug Larsson

I am pleased to be a part of this historic and vibrant community.  My enjoyment of Wauconda and the Bangs Lake region goes back to my high school days and over the years I have enjoyed the restaurants and shops as well as the water; as your new Police Chief I am excited to carry out my duties to protect you and your family or business.

I started my police career in Rolling Meadows, when in 2003 I left the position of Deputy Chief of Police to become the Chief in Round Lake Beach.  I served there for 6 years and in October, 2009 I was appointed to be your Police Chief. 

When I arrived, I was very pleased by the warm greeting that many community members gave me and I have been impressed with the dedication of the residents as well as with the professional appearance and demeanor of the Police Department’s 39 staff members.  It is my desire for the Department to become a leader in public safety and problem solving, which begins with developing a good communication process and ending with you giving me the feedback that I need.

As a resident you should be able to have answers to questions such as “what is happening in my neighborhood” or “how do I find out about important issues”?  I am excited to announce two new programs – the ICOP Program and on March 15, the online Crime Reports Program, both of which are described in the “Keeping you Safe” tab under the links My Cop! and Crimes & Incidents Map.  Also, on March 25 you can view what incidents are reported to the news media, you can look at the “Police Blotter” link.

The changes that will be coming over the next year may dramatic and obvious, others subtle and behind the scenes; but they will be significant.  Managing change in a police department requires understanding the history of the department and providing a vision for the future.  Wauconda’s future is bright I am pleased to be a part of it!

Best regards,

Doug Larsson, Chief of Police