When I consider what it means to dedicate a life to public service, I think of Deputy Chief Leo Kotor. His career began humbly as a community service officer. Over the course of 30 years, he rose through every rank in the Riverside Police Department, ultimately becoming Deputy Chief of Police. Few people can claim to have held every position in a department. Even fewer can say they excelled at each one. Leo can.
Throughout his career, Leo served Riverside with dignity, professionalism, and a genuine passion for his work. He was an outstanding team member of the Northern Illinois Police Alarm System (NIPAS) and the emergency services team (EST), and he mentored countless officers — some formally through field training, others simply by being “Leo.” His influence didn’t depend on rank; it came from who he was.
When I served as chief, I depended heavily on Deputy Chief Kotor. I promoted him to Detective Sergeant because I needed someone whose judgment I trusted without hesitation. Being chief meant worrying around the clock about my officers, their safety, and whether situations were being managed properly.
When Leo took on that role, I slept better. I knew he would make the right decision every time. He kept me and the command staff informed, no matter what time it was. Two or three in the morning, I’d get a call updating me on a violent crime or an injured officer — thankfully, most injuries were not life-threatening. But I never worried for a single day when Leo was in charge. I knew the village of Riverside and its residents were in safe hands.
Almost every Riverside resident has crossed paths with Deputy Chief Kotor at some point. Those who did met a person who was friendly, steady, and deeply dedicated to the community. His passion was evident from the moment you met him. In many ways, it’s sad when someone of his caliber retires. But it also shows the high quality of the people Riverside hires to serve and protect. Residents should appreciate the village’s strong hiring practices and the Police and Fire Commissioners, dedicated community members, who genuinely care about who wears the badge. I know this firsthand.
Leo, congratulations on your retirement. I wish you nothing but success in whatever comes next. Make no mistake, you’ve influenced everyone around you, from the newest patrol officer to me as chief. Yes, I was inspired by you. And believe me, I learned a lot from you as well.
I hope every resident understands what Riverside lost when Deputy Chief Kotor retired. But I also know the village will continue to move forward with its outstanding police force.
Still, I have no doubt you’re the best. Thank you, Leo, for everything you contributed to Riverside. Your legacy is part of this department’s fabric, and it always will be.
Chief Tom Weitzel (Ret.)
Former Riverside Police Chief