Chief Cunningham To Retire From Woodridge Police Department

WOODRIDGE, IL — After nearly 40 years in local law enforcement, Woodridge Police Chief Brian Cunningham is set to retire before the end of January.

Cunningham began his role as Woodridge's police chief in 2016. Prior to that, he served as deputy chief and director of investigations for the Naperville Police Department. Cunningham's extensive experience also includes serving as Illinois Homicide Investigators Association president and working as an adjunct professor at College of DuPage.

“We are incredibly grateful for the many years of outstanding policing and leadership that Chief Cunningham has provided to our community,” says Mayor Gina Cunningham. “His excellent and tireless efforts have helped to keep Woodridge a safe and welcoming community. He will be greatly missed, but we wish him the very best in his well-deserved retirement.”

In his time with the Woodridge Police Department, Chief Cunningham has been instrumental in several developments, including the village's new police department location, the department's information portal and its community outreach program.

Cunningham has also been known to play the bagpipes for the annual Cop on a Rooftop and other events.

In a statement, Chief Cunningham said working as the village's police chief has "been an honor."

He added. "The highlight of my law enforcement career will always be the communities' response to the 2021 Tornado. During this difficult time, members of the community stood by our side as we responded to hundreds of life-threatening calls. I am proud of the work we have accomplished together and am grateful for the support of my fellow officers and the community."

Cunningham's retirement takes effect Jan. 24. Residents can attend a sendoff on Jan. 18 at 5 p.m. at Village Hall.

As Woodridge begins its search for a new police chief, Deputy Chief Tom Stefanson will act as interim chief of police.