Village of Rockford names John Westgerdes as new police chief

ROCKFORD — The Village of Rockford has announced that John Westgerdes has accepted the position of Rockford police chief, effective April 6, 2026. The announcement was released by Village of Rockford Fiscal Officer Lisa Kuhn.

Westgerdes comes to Rockford from the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, where he served as a sergeant. Public records and local reporting have also identified him in investigative leadership roles, including as a task force detective sergeant.

He replaces Bryan Stetler, who announced his retirement in February after about 30 years in law enforcement. Stetler’s retirement took effect in early March following action by Rockford Village Council.

Stetler had served the Rockford Police Department since 1997, starting as an auxiliary officer before moving up to part time, then full time, later becoming sergeant in 2004 and chief in 2023.

Westgerdes’ appointment gives the village a new chief with county level law enforcement experience as Rockford prepares for the transition in early April.