Pleasant Prairie Chief of Police David Smetana has announced plans to retire from the Pleasant Prairie Police Department in early 2026. This advance notice provides time for succession planning and an orderly leadership transition.
"Chief Smetana has strengthened the capabilities of the department and reinforced its commitment to preparedness and training,” said Village Administrator Eric Rindfleisch. “His early notice ensures the department will have a smooth and well-planned transition."
Chief Smetana began his career in law enforcement in 1983 with the Racine Police Department, where he served in various capacities, including Patrolman, Investigator, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Deputy Chief, and Interim Chief. In January 2013, he became the fourth Chief of Police for the Village of Pleasant Prairie. Under his leadership, the department expanded and enhanced its abilities, implementing new technologies to support crime prevention and bringing attention to the mental health needs of police officers. The department completed law enforcement accreditation and expanded officer training in areas such as evidence collection, accident investigation, human trafficking, and internet crimes against children. He also strengthened partnerships with regional law enforcement agencies and the community.
The Pleasant Prairie Police Department serves a population of about 22,000 residents across 34 square miles. The department benefits from strong community support, demonstrated by the passage of the public safety referendum in 2022, which expanded staffing to 40 full-time officers. In 2025, Pleasant Prairie opened a new state-of-the-art Police Station, providing a modern facility and resources that will support public safety operations for many years to come. Smetana has fostered trust and collaboration with diverse stakeholder groups, including the Pleasant Prairie Police Appreciation Foundation, a group that provides regular support to police morale, initiatives, and events.
"It is an honor to work alongside the men and women of the Pleasant Prairie Police Department,” explained Smetana. “Announcing my plans now provides Village leadership the time needed to make a thoughtful transition.”
Pleasant Prairie has begun the recruitment process for a successor to Chief Smetana. Interested candidates may submit applications online at
pleasantprairiewi.gov/employment.