Following the July 2012 retirement of Police Chief Brian J. Wagner, the Village of Pleasant Prairie initiated a national search for the next Chief of Police. Out of 34 applicants who met minimum requirements, eight candidates were selected to interview with a professional review panel. The professional review panel consisted of Police Chiefs from Burlington, Mount Pleasant and Twin Lakes, Wisconsin and Winthrop Harbor, Illinois.
Written tests and evaluations were given, and interviews were conducted based on a long list of criteria identified for the position. Based on the outcome of the interviews and tests, the review panel recommended three candidates for consideration to Pleasant Prairie's Police and Fire Commission. Two of the three candidates are currently members of the Pleasant Prairie Police Department. The Police and Fire Commission, which is responsible for appointing the Chief, then interviewed the three candidates prior to making their final selection. Based on the outcome of the tests and interviews with both the professional review panel and the Police and Fire Commission, the position has been offered to David Smetana.
Smetana became a member of the City of Racine Police Department in 1983 and served in progressive roles throughout his career. He most recently served as Deputy Chief of the Patrol Division. Smetana holds a Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and graduated from the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy Session 233. Smetana has experience with: the patrol division, internal affairs, technology, gang unit, sensitive crimes, street crimes, drug unit, special weapons team, and crisis negotiation.
Pleasant Prairie Village Administrator Mike Pollocoff explained, "David Smetana will bring an extensive skill set to a department that has already demonstrated success as one of the most performance-oriented, productive and community-focused departments in the State. The Commission's selection was based on Smetana's 30 years of progressive experience, his interview scores with the professional review panel, and his interview with the members of the Police and Fire Commission." Pollocoff added, "I concur with the Commission's selection. I believe David Smetana will provide outstanding leadership to a highly dedicated and professional team that is already known for their excellent performance." Smetana is reporting for duty on Monday, January 28.