Indian Head Park mourns loss of first female police officer Kathleen Sullivan Ryan

The Village of Indian Head Park Board meeting held on January 7, 2025, addressed several key topics, primarily focusing on personnel updates within the police department and a moment of remembrance for a former officer.

The meeting commenced with Chief of Police acknowledging the passing of Kathleen Sullivan Ryan, the first police officer of Indian Head Park. He expressed condolences to her family, highlighting her character and contributions to the community. Chief Ryan noted that Kathleen was not only a beloved figure but also the first pensioner from the Indian Head Park police force.

Following this tribute, Chief Ryan provided updates on the department's staffing. He announced the onboarding of two new officers who began their training at the academy the previous Monday. This early onboarding has proven beneficial, allowing the new recruits to familiarize themselves with department policies and local geography ahead of schedule. Chief Ryan indicated that this preparation could potentially reduce the Field Training Officer (FTO) training program duration from eight weeks to four weeks, enabling the officers to be on the streets sooner.

The Chief also reported positive developments in recruiting part-time officers, attributing increased interest to a recent pay raise. Four part-time officers have been hired, with additional candidates still under consideration. He mentioned specific officers covering various shifts, which has significantly aided the department's operational capacity.

The board expressed strong support for the Chief's initiatives, encouraging continued efforts to enhance staffing levels. There was a consensus on the importance of recruiting additional young officers for the upcoming academy session in April.

As the meeting concluded, the board members reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the police department's staffing needs and ensuring the community's safety. The meeting wrapped up with a motion for adjournment, marking a productive session focused on community service and public safety enhancements.