Lake County Gazette

Deputy Police Chief Michael Rodriguez is set to retire from the Buffalo Grove Police Department on May 2, concluding nearly 29 years of service. Rodriguez began his career as a patrol officer in the village in 1996.

"I am incredibly grateful for the relationships and community partnerships I’ve developed over the course of my career in Buffalo Grove," Rodriguez said, according to a news release. "The professionalism and sincere passion for community safety that our officers show daily, coupled with the tremendous community support we receive, is what made my time here so enjoyable."

According to the release, after starting as a patrol officer, Rodriguez served in various roles within the department. He spent over nine years as a criminal investigator and two years as an undercover narcotics agent assigned to a State Police Task Force. He also served as a corporal in the patrol division. Rodriguez advanced through leadership positions, being promoted to sergeant in 2011, lieutenant in 2016, and deputy chief of Operations in 2022.

Buffalo Grove Police Chief Brian Budds said that Rodriguez has been a tremendous leader and mentor whose contributions to the department and community will have a lasting impact.

The release further noted that Rodriguez graduated from the FBI National Academy and completed three Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command leadership programs. He holds a master's degree in law enforcement and justice administration. Additionally, he is recognized as a certified police executive and is affiliated with both the Illinois and International Associations of Chiefs of Police. His accolades include numerous awards such as a Life-Saving Award and the ILACP Rising Shields of Law Enforcement Award.