John Oakley Promoted To Skokie Police Deputy Chief Of Field Operations

SKOKIE, IL — Following last month's promotion of one of the village's deputy police chiefs to succeed the retiring chief, John Oakley was this week promoted from commander to deputy chief of the Skokie Police Department.

Oakley, a 13-year veteran of the department, was sworn in to his new role at Tuesday's village board meeting. As deputy chief of field operations, Oakley will be in charge of patrol, investigations and special operations.

Oakley joins Deputy Chief Denise Franklin, whose purview includes communications, records, support services and professional standards, in reporting to Chief Jesse Barnes. Barnes took over last month for retiring former Chief Brian Baker, who spent just over three years in the role.

“John’s diverse experience as a Special Enforcement Team member, patrol sergeant, crime prevention and community relations sergeant, watch commander, and NORTAF Incident Management Assistance Team commander have prepared him well for his new role,” Barnes said in a statement.

“His leadership, work ethic and vision will ensure that the Skokie Police Department remains the best of the best well into the future.”

Village officials also announced the swearing-in of a new sergeant, Rogelio Cantu, who, in his time as an officer, has been an honor guard member, a drug recognition expert, a field training officer and a reality-based training instructor.

Related: Skokie Deputy Chief Jesse Barnes Promoted To Replace Retiring Chief