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It's never been about the spotlight for the 20-year department veteran.
A village resident since she was only months old, Luthcke at first worked in patrol, community policing and property/evidence control -- while also doing detective work.
She was appointed in 2000 to the accreditation manager’s position and has since led the department through five re-accreditations, including honors as a flagship agency and for meritorious service.
Lutchke was promoted to sergeant in 2005 and lieutenant three years later. She kept busy, covering the night shift while overseeing the accreditation process and conducting various administrative functions.
After another three years, she was promoted to captain in charge of all patrol and administrative functions.
Lutchke is a past president of the New Jersey Public Safety Accreditation Coalition -- and a recipient of its Distinguished Leadership Award.
She was also a commissioner with the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police Law Enforcement Accreditation/CALEA Alliance Program, working 12 years as an assessor. She's also a team leader with the program.
Lutchke holds a BA Degree in Sociology/Criminology from Ohio University, where she was graduated with honors. She is a graduate of the West Point Command and Leadership course run by the New Jersey State Association Of Chiefs of Police -- graduating first in her class and receiving the Chief Harry Wilde Academic Achievement Award.
The new chief also is actively involved in several community organizations, such as the Community Relations Advisory Board, the Interfaith Ministry and the Community Alliance.
Friday's 9 a.m. swearing in will be at the Benjamin Franklin Middle School.
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