Kammerer named new Princeton Police chief

PRINCETON — The city of Princeton has appointed a new chief of police after the position was vacated by Tom Root, who retired at the end of last year.

Thomas M. Kammerer comes to Princeton with 24 years of police experiences, most recently as a commander with the Naperville Police Department.

He holds a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice administration from Western Illinois University and a master of science degree in public safety administration from Lewis University. He has also attended the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va.

Kammerer has performed a broad range of police assignments including patrols, investigations and high-level leadership. He has served as a field trainer, drug enforcement investigator and a member of crisis intervention teams.

Kammerer plans to retire from the Naperville Police Department in April before coming to Princeton. His duties will officially begin on April 30.

Kammerer currently lives in Oswego with his wife, Betsy, of 28 years. Together they have four children — two are in college, one will be a senior in high school, and the other will be a seventh grader.

Kammerer grew up in Hamilton, Ill., and remembers the way of life in a smaller town.

“Naperville is a bigger department, … but I always wanted to be a chief and this community is very nice. Everyone I’ve met so far has been so nice and welcoming everywhere I’ve been. That’s what I remember growing up, and I want to live where I’m the chief and a part of the community,” he said.

Kammerer considers himself a community man. He and his family are very involved in the community where they live now. They are sports enthusiasts, retailers and supporters of local events and charities. Kammerer plans to be very visible in Princeton’s community.

“Helping people solve their problems is so much easier when they know who you are. So I want to be out and be visible. If anybody ever has a question, I want them to feel free to ask me,” he said.

“I told my wife the other day this seems too good to be true, but it’s something we’re very excited about, and being part of the community is going to be a nice change.”

Princeton City Manager Rachel Skaggs said she believes Kammerer will also have a quick and positive effect on the city’s law enforcement staff.

“Not only does Tom Kammerer have the career experience we hoped for, but his leadership style and communication skills will be a tremendous asset to the Princeton Police Department,” she said.

Princeton Mayor Joel Quiram noted the selection process for police chief brought an impressive slate of candidates.

“The administration, city council and a police department panel interviewed what probably were the best-qualified candidates the city has seen for any recent open position. All were unique, but qualified for our needs. Our selection of Thomas Kammerer will be noticed in the community. He will be an active chief of police, and Princeton will benefit from his wide experiences,” he said.