After five years with the City of Marion, Chief of Police Mike Kitsmiller has announced his plans to retire in April.

Kitsmiller has built an impressive resume through his 38 years in law enforcement. The first 12 years of his career were spent with the Memphis Police Department followed by 20 years with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). In 2004, he was part of the team that put the war crimes case together against Saddam Hussein. In 2019, he retired from the FBI on a Friday and began his tenure as Marion’s police chief the following Monday.

As police chief, Kitsmiller was responsible for the administration, coordination and direction of all Marion Police Department activities. The department of 48 sworn officers and six civilian employees consists of patrol, investigations, administrative and public safety communication divisions.

“Our community is fortunate to have had Mike Kitsmiller as its chief of police,” said Marion Mayor Nick AbouAssaly. “He has demonstrated strength, leadership and compassion in times of adversity and made a positive impact in our region through his invaluable experience and service.”

During his time in Marion, Kitsmiller helped modernize the 911 dispatch center and records management systems, both of which improved the department’s efficiency. He helped lead the City’s derecho response and recovery efforts and initiated an online community transparency page to provide greater insight into how the Marion Police Department serves the community. He empowered his team and gave employees a voice in how the department operates.

“I like to think I’ll be leaving the department a little better off than when I got here,” said Kitsmiller. “I hope the next chief, and the one after him or her, can do the same thing.” 

“Chief Kitsmiller’s approach has been forward-thinking and community-focused since day one,” said City Manager Ryan Waller. “His intellect, voice of reason and sense of humor will be deeply missed among our team.”

Months ago, Kitsmiller conveyed his plans to retire to Waller. This afforded ample time for succession planning. A recruitment firm has been hired to guide the process. In accordance with Iowa Civil Service laws, Deputy Police Chief Chad Nott will serve as interim chief for the first 90 days.

In retirement, Kitsmiller looks forward to spending more time with his family and possibly dusting off his golf clubs.

“I’m proud of the men and women of the Marion Police Department and humbled to have worked alongside the other members of the City’s executive leadership team,” Kitsmiller added. “After 38 years I won’t miss the work, but I know I’ll miss the people I worked with on a daily basis.”