Northern Illinois University’s Acting Director of Public Safety Bill Nicklas Sunday announced that Darren Mitchell will serve as acting police chief in order to ensure a smooth transition in providing law enforcement service to the campus community.
Lt. Darren Mitchell
Mitchell has been employed at NIU since 1994 and has served as a sworn officer on the NIU police force since 2000, most recently as deputy chief of police and executive director of the Office of Emergency Management and Planning.
“I have every confidence that Darren will perform well in this role of acting police chief,” Nicklas said. “Right now the goal is to maintain continuity of operations within the police department to ensure the department continues to serve and protect the campus community.”
Mitchell is a certified emergency medical technician (EMT) and hazardous materials technician (HAZMAT) and has served as a part of the Critical Incidence Response Team, Interpersonal Violence Response Team and Honor Guard.
Mitchell and his spouse, Melody Mitchell, are both NIU graduates and employed at the university. Melody serves as director of alumni events and public relations for NIU’s College of Law. They are active in the university and local communities, including their faith community.
On Nov. 10, Chief Donald Grady was placed on administrative leave pending finalization of charges and disciplinary actions under the terms and conditions of his employment as well as university policies. Additionally, Lt. Kartik Ramakrishnan was notified of the university’s intent to discharge him in accordance with procedures outlined in the State Universities Civil Service System’s (SUCSS) statutes and rules.
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Impressive record;however, do not forget how Mitchell arrived to this level. He was promoted and is still the right hand of suspended Chief Grady. Photographs with ribbons/medals that are deserve by following along is not the way to get to the position of Chief Manager or is it. Mitchell’s management style remains the same as this is all he knows. (Ruling by fear and micromanaging style). Appears that Northern is one step better but still needs to clean house from the top police department. How many more cases like Rifkin’s is swept under the rug? Will ISP really investigate? Peters is the complainant and he can call it off anytime. Wake up community! Our children are still at high risk.