SPD Promotion and Swearing In Ceremony

Mayor Misty Buscher and Springfield Police Chief Joseph Behl proudly recognized the promotion of two officers and the swearing-in of seven new officers during a ceremony held at the Springfield City Council Chambers on Tuesday, September 30, 2025

Sergeant Kristoffer Rhodes was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant, while Officer Orlando Manzanares was promoted to the rank of Sergeant.

Lieutenant Kristoffer Rhodes has dedicated 24 years to the Springfield Police Department. Throughout his career, he has served in Field Operations, Mobile Field Force, Field Training Officer, Field Training Sergeant and has served as the SPD Recruiting Coordinator for the past 7 years.

Sergeant Orlando Manzanares has been with the Springfield Police Department for 13 years. His service includes serving in Field Operations, Street Crimes Unit, Pro-Active Crimes Unit, Emergency Response Team and member of the SPD recruitment team.

Additionally, seven new officers were officially sworn in today. Five of the officers graduated from the Macon County Law Enforcement Training Center in August, where they completed their basic law enforcement training. Two of our new officers are lateral hires. All seven are currently assigned to the Springfield Police Academy for additional training and will soon join the Field Operations Division to begin the field training program under the guidance of veteran officers.

The Springfield Police Department is pleased to welcome the following officers:
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Officer Timothy Bergel – A native of Chicago, joins SPD from the U.S. Capitol Police with three years of experience. He attended Benedictine University and the University of Chicago.
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Officer Michael McDermand – An Auburn native and former member of both Jacksonville and Auburn Police Departments. He also served six years in the Illinois Army National Guard.
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Officer Ethan Brill – A Chatham native and graduate of Glenwood High School. He served as a Senior Airman in the U.S. Air Force.
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Officer Zachary Eddington – A Springfield native and graduate of Lanphier High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from Midland University.
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Officer Andrew Lazar – A Sherman native and graduate of Williamsville High School.
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Officer Austin Linne – A Springfield native and graduate of Lanphier High School.
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Officer Logan Stokes – A Chatham native and graduate of Chatham High School. He earned his associate’s degree in Secondary Education from Lincoln Land Community College

The Springfield Police Department is proud to recognize the achievements of Lieutenant Rhodes and Sergeant Manzanares, while also welcoming seven new officers into service. Their dedication and commitment to public safety will strengthen the department’s mission of serving our community with service, pride, and dedication.