The City of Hometown is conducting an investigation into former Police Chief Charles Forsyth, who abruptly resigned last week, a city official confirmed Monday.
On Thursday, current Hometown alderman and former Deputy Chief Howard Reinheimer is expected to be appointed acting chief, City Attorney Michael Cainkar said. Attempts to contact Reinheimer Monday were unsuccessful.
Officials declined to comment on the nature of the investigation surrounding the longtime chief’s resignation, with one official saying it would be “premature” release details until the investigation is done.
Hometown will provide a complete report on the results of the investigation when it is completed, Cainkar said.
Forsyth’s resignation was effective Aug. 8, Cainkar said.
Messages left with Mayor Kevin Casey were forwarded to Cainkar.
Deputy Chief James Rowland is running the department until the appointment is made, Cainkar said.
According to the city website, Reinheimer currently serves as one of two aldermen for Hometown’s Ward 4. Officials said he would have to resign from the elected position if he is appointed acting police chief. Reinheimer’s current term as alderman ends in April 2019.
Reinheimer first joined the city’s Police Department as a patrol officer in 1973 and retired in 1999, according to his biography. He got into politics after taking the position of city police commissioner.
Nick Swedberg is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
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