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MARION — Longtime law enforcement officer and peer support advocate Jeremy Sprague has been tapped as the next head of the Marion Police Department.
In his new role, Sprague will be responsible for the administration, coordination and direction of all Marion Police Department activities. The department employs 48 sworn officers, 10 dispatchers and six civilian employees across various divisions.
The city announced Sprague’s selection in a Monday news release, concluding a multi-month search to replace former Police Chief Mike Kitsmiller
following his spring retirement.
“It is an honor to be joining Team Marion,” Sprague said in the release. “This is a special place, made evident in the commitment from city leaders, staff and so many invested members of the community throughout the hiring process.”
Sprague, 46, served most recently as a lieutenant at the Des Moines Police Department where he managed the department’s $85 million budget. He has 25 years of law enforcement experience and has previously worked as a patrol officer, detective, hostage/crisis negotiator and sergeant.
He holds a Master of Public Administration degree and a bachelor’s degree in emergency management administration and has spoken at multiple law enforcement events about employee wellness and resiliency.
Sprague also developed Iowa’s first public safety peer support program within the Des Moines Police Department and established the Peer Support Foundation, a nationwide organization that supports first responder mental health.
He was one of four finalists for the chief position, alongside Chad Nott, deputy chief at the Marion Police Department; Douglas Riniker, colonel and chief deputy at the Linn County Sheriff’s Office; and Schonella Stewart, commander at the Oak Park Police Department in Illinois.
“We were fortunate to have four highly qualified candidates interview for this position,” said City Manager Ryan Waller. “Jeremy stood out as a thoughtful leader with a vision to move the Marion Police Department forward.”
Marion City Council members are expected to formally approve Sprague’s appointment at their next meeting, which would result in his first day on the job being Aug. 21.
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