Kilbane to retire after eight years as police chief

by Laura Bednar

After a 32-year career in law enforcement, Independence Police Chief Michael Kilbane will retire on Aug. 4.

Kilbane began his career in 1989 with the South Euclid Police Department after graduating from the Ohio State Highway Patrol Training Academy in Columbus. He spent four years with the South Euclid department before working in the North Olmsted Police Department, starting in 1994, where he rose from patrolman to sergeant, to lieutenant, to captain and finally to executive captain. He spent 20 years in North Olmsted before joining the Independence police in May 2013 as chief, filling the position after John Nicastro retired.

“I hired Chief Michael Kilbane eight years ago because he brought enthusiasm, experience and the credentials necessary to lead a law enforcement agency that serves multiple constituencies – residential, a robust business community and commuters – in a community with two active interstates,’’ said Mayor Greg Kurtz. “His knowledge of public safety operations and ability to educate and lead others has enriched the department.”

Kilbane said of his work as chief, “It’s a tremendous responsibility but has been one of the biggest honors of my life.”

Kilbane said the biggest change he has seen in law enforcement is in the use of technology. “Technology and training progression over the years is mind-boggling,” he said.

Some advancements he has seen are guns made mostly of plastic, a laser aimed at cars to determine their speed and a handheld device that can instantaneously send videos and voice messages during investigations.

Kurtz mentioned some of Kilbane’s achievements, saying, “During Chief Kilbane’s tenure, the police department has increased street patrols and installed 31 high-tech surveillance cameras along Rockside, Brecksville, Pleasant Valley and Schaaf Roads to help our officers fight crime.”

When reviewing his career, Kilbane said, “It’s been a wonderful opportunity to make positive changes. I’ve been blessed to be surrounded with a talented and wonderful team.”

Kilbane decided to retire to spend more time with his family. He promised his wife they would move somewhere warm. He intends to live in Florida.

“I want to get the most out of life while I’m still relatively young and healthy,” Kilbane, 57, said.

Kurtz said he is undecided about whether to seek a chief from outside the police force or replace Kilbane internally. He said he plans to seek advice from the law-enforcement community and within the department. ∞