Crystal Lake Police Officers Promoted

Two Crystal Lake police officers were promoted during the June 5 city council meeting as nearly 50 fellow police and fire officers looked on.

Sgt. Derek Hyrkas and officer Tom Kotlowski both were promoted after completing what Chief David Linder described as “rigorous exams” and testing to earn the new ranks.

Crystal Lake Mayor Aaron Shepley and Linder formally appointed Hyrkas to the department’s Commander of Operations. Hyrkas started with the Crystal Lake Police in 1995, and advanced to the rank of sergeant in 2007.

Shepley and Linder appointed Kotlowski to sergeant. Kotlowski has been on the city’s police force since 2008.

Hyrkas’ wife and Kotlowski’s son had the honor of pinning the officers’ new badges. When the ceremony was completed, Linder thanked the council for recognizing the men during the regularly scheduled city council meeting.

“We’re really happy the council gives us the opportunity to advance our officers through the ranks at this meeting,” Linder said. “It’s so important for us.”