William Mittlestat named South Rockwood police chief
SOUTH ROCKWOOD − The South Rockwood Police Department is promoting one of its own.
William Mittlestat has been appointed the new chief of police for the village of South Rockwood in a unanimous vote by the village council. Mittlestat was recommended for the position by departing Chief Darrin Wright.
"It's very flattering," Mittlestat said. "I'm looking forward to working with the Monroe County Sheriffs. I'm a very good communicator, I work well with others, and I'm very transparent."
Mittlestat has been with South Rockwood Police Department for 12 years, holding the positions of patrol officer and sergeant.
He previously retired from the Wayne County Sheriff's Office after serving 30 years. He held numerous positions with Wayne County, starting as a rescue diver in the marine division before moving to road patrol. He later worked as a narcotics investigator and then a uniformed road sergeant.
After retiring, Mittlestat has worked part-time with the South Rockwood Police Department and part-time with the Detroit Tigers as travel security for away games. He turned down an opportunity to become chief of police earlier due to his work with the Tigers. He retired from that role during the COVID-19 pandemic and became a full-time sergeant with South Rockwood.
He felt the time was right to take the position now. There are nine officers under his command in the department.
"I thought I can do some good," Mittlestat said. "I've always been in a command position most of my career. When I first retired, I missed it."
Wright retired as chief of police after 13 years in South Rockwood and 34 years in law enforcement.
"He has been a great asset and a vital part of our community," the village posted on Facebook last week. "We would like everyone to wish him the best as we say so long and want him to know he will be greatly missed and we are thankful for his service."
This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: William Mittlestat named South Rockwood police chief
