For Immediate Release: Plymouth Police and Fire Commission Appoints Kenneth Ruggles as Chief of Police

Following a national recruitment process, the Plymouth Police and Fire Commission has appointed Kenneth Ruggles as the next City of Plymouth Chief of Police. Mr. Ruggles will start with the City of Plymouth on May 15, 2023.  

Mr. Ruggles has 28 years of law enforcement experience and has served as the Plainfield, Illinois Police Department Commander of Administration since 2020.  He previously served as the Plainfield Commander of Community Services 2012 to 2019, the Deputy Director of the Plainfield Emergency Management Agency from 2012 to 2019, and the Plainfield Commander of Patrol Operations from 2007 to 2012.  Mr. Ruggles graduated from Judson University in 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts in Management of Criminal Justice Agencies. Mr. Ruggles also has significant experience with the National Incident Management System (NIMS), FBI-Law Enforcement Executive Leadership Association, and the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command.

Mr. Ruggles stated, “I would like to thank the City of Plymouth and the Police and Fire Commission for this opportunity. My wife and I are excited to join the Plymouth community.”

Over 30 applications were initially received for the Chief of Police position. With the assistance of GovHR USA, the Police and Fire commission narrowed the final candidate pool to four. The final selection process included multi-day assessment which included discussions with community stakeholders, Police and Fire Department Staff, City Staff, and ultimately the Police and Fire Commission. 

Mayor Pohlman said, “I welcome Ken to our wonderful community. The Common Council and I look forward to having him as our new Chief of Police.”  Kathy Halloran, President of the Police and Fire Commission, stated that “I am excited to have Ken as our new Chief. Ken’s knowledge and skills will help guide the future of the Plymouth Police Department.”

Please contact City Administrator/Utilities Manager Tim Blakeslee with questions at TBlakeslee@plymouthwi.gov or 920-893-1271.