Hodgkins promoted police Sgt. Michael Bennett to lieutenant last month.
The promotion was unanimously approved at the Nov. 10 village board meeting, after the move was recommended by Police Chief Ryan Carrasquillo.
Before the vote, Carrasquillo shared his thoughts on Sergeant Bennett.
“Sergeant Michael Bennett has been an incredibly valuable member of our department from the day he first joined us in 2005”’ Carrasquillo said. “After a short time learning the ropes and working patrol, he entered investigations in 2008, and was our sole investigator for several years.
“During that time, he was closely involved with the Major Case Assistance Team and the South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force, even taking leadership roles. He last served as commander. During that time, he received two Cook County Sheriff’s Meritorious Awards, and an outside agency commendation from the Orland Park Police Department.
“Mike was promoted to sergeant in 2014, and returned to the Patrol Division a few months later, and has continued to serve as a leader in our department ever since. Sergeant Bennett has excelled in any role he’s ever been placed into in our department, and he’s quick to take initiative.”
“It is my recommendation that you vote to promote Mike to the position of lieutenant, as I feel you could not pick a more deserving candidate.”
After the vote, Bennett was sworn in by retired judge and Hodgkins Village Attorney Pat Rogers in front of his wife, children, residents, friends and colleagues.
“The board knows that this village took a chance on me,” he said. “I was a 32-year-old kid, truck driver by trade, already married with two kids. I was not an ideal candidate. I swore that day that I was going to make them proud that they made the right decision.
“I worked hard and hope to continue to do that in this new role. I appreciate you all being here today. Thank you very much and I’m honored that so many turned out to support me.”