January 22, 2025
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Streator Police Department welcomes new officer

Department set to reach full staffing with hire

By Bill Freskos
Andrew Gotch (left) is sworn in as the newest officer of the Streator Police Department by Deputy Chief Robert Wood during a ceremony at Streator City Hall on Monday morning.

Andrew Gotch (left) is sworn in Monday, Dec. 9, 2024, as the newest officer of the Streator Police Department by Deputy Chief Robert Wood during a ceremony at Streator City Hall. (Photo provided by John Franklin)

The Streator Police Department swore in Andrew Gotch on Monday as its newest officer.

Gotch is a graduate of Illinois State University with a degree in criminal justice. He grew up and has ties in the community, having attended Streator Elementary Schools and Streator High School.

He is set to be a second-generation officer, following in the footsteps of his father, Deon Gotch, a former Streator police officer.

“We’re excited to welcome Andrew to our department,” said Deputy Chief Robert Wood. “He brings with him the skills and background to have a long, successful career here. His ties to Streator and his education in criminal justice make him a great fit for our team.”

Gotch’s hiring fills the vacancy left by Officer Chris Osborn, who recently was reassigned as a school resource officer.

Wood said the department expects to be at full staffing levels once Gotch graduates from the Sauk Valley Community College Police Academy in the spring, barring any unforeseen departures.

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