The Moline Police Department has announced a new Chief of Police, John Hitchcock..
Officer Hitchcock became the Interim Police Chief in July 2017 after former Chief Kim Hankins retired.
For almost 26 years, Officer Hitchcock has held a variety of titles.
“During my time here I’ve served in every division,” said Hitchcock.
From Patrol Officer, to Lieutenant, and Captain to name a few, he says he’s ready for the next chapter. In 1992 23-year-old Hitchcock was just getting started.
“I remember when I started there was nights where sometimes the paperwork confused me so much I didn’t think I’d ever figure it out,” said Hitchcock.
Fast forward to today, the soon-to-be Chief is looking back on over two decades of serving his city.
“That’s why I come in every day,” said Hitchcock. “It’s for the people here, and to be honest with you, it’s for the community.”
While his hard work has earned him the top spot, he admits the journey hasn’t always been easy.
“People don’t call you to have coffee, they don’t call you to have a nice conversation,” said Hitchcock. “Unfortunately for police officers, when they’re dealing with people, they’re dealing with people on some of the worst days of their lives.”
…but says its been worth it.
“I’ve never come home and said ya know, I don’t want to do this anymore, I quit. I love what I do,” he said.
One the of tasks at the top of his to-do list, closing the gap between the department and their community.
“Showing them that we’re not just robots, we’re human beings. we have the same wants and needs as you and we all want this community to be better. but we all need to work together to do that,” he said.
With his sights set on the future, Officer Hitchcock is ready to cap off his career right where it all started, at the only department he’s ever called home.
“I started here, and I’m gonna end here and I’m really proud of that.”
