GENESEO, IL - The City of Geneseo is proud to announce that Deputy Chief Gene Karzin has accepted the position of Chief of Police for the City of Silvis, Illinois. His first official day serving the Silvis community will be January 5, 2026.
While we will certainly miss his leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to our community, we couldn’t be more excited for this next chapter in his distinguished career. Gene has served Geneseo with heart, integrity, and a genuine dedication to the safety and well-being of our residents. His impact will continue to be felt for years to come.
Throughout his tenure, Gene has spearheaded the development of safety protocols and planning for community events, the redesigning and rebuilding of the department’s firearms range, increased officer training to ensure we have better prepared police officers, telecommunicators, and staff, and has been a driving force behind the Geneseo IMPACT program. He has also worked tirelessly to build morale within the department and foster a positive, professional environment.
Chief of Police Casey Disterhoft stated, “Deputy Chief Karzin has been an integral part of our department and community. His leadership, dedication, and compassion have truly made a difference. He has been instrumental in improving our safety protocols, training, and department morale. The Silvis Police Department is fortunate to have him, as his professionalism and dedication will undoubtedly serve their community well. While we will miss him greatly, we are proud to see him take this well-deserved next step. We wish him all the best in his new role.”
City Administrator Brandon Maeglin expressed, “On behalf of the City of Geneseo, I congratulate Deputy Chief Gene Karzin on being selected as the next Police Chief in Silvis, IL. His leadership and dedication to our community have been invaluable, and we'll greatly miss him. We wish him all the best in this exciting new chapter.”
Gene addressed the residents, visitors and guests of Geneseo, "I have been truly proud to work alongside the dedicated and professional staff of the Geneseo Police Department. Our officers and staff exemplify integrity, commitment, and excellence every day, and it has been an honor to serve with such an outstanding team. Their professionalism and unwavering dedication have been a constant source of inspiration, and I am grateful for the privilege of working with such an exceptional department."