The Valparaiso Police Department will see three promoted and two others laterally transferred from within their ranks on July 1, 2024The movement will include the promotion of Joe Cowser to Lieutenant, as well as the promotions of John Cordova and Alex Sprowl to Sergeant. These promotions will retain these officers in the Patrol Division, while current Patrol Lieutenant, Sean Kostelnik will be assigned as the Community Services Officer and current Patrol Sergeant, Peter Castillo, who will be assigned to the investigations Division
Sean Kostelnik is a 28-year veteran who has worked in the Patrol Division throughout his career. He is a 1989 graduate of Kankakee Valley High School and also attended Morehead State University. While Serving Valparaiso, Sean was promoted to Corporal in May of 2000, to Sergeant in April of 2005, and to Lieutenant later that same year. Sean has served as a K9 Handler, Field Training Officer, Emergency Response Team Operator, Negotiator, and Instructor during his career.
Joe Cowser is a seven-year veteran, who has worked in the Patrol Division throughout his career. He is a 2013 graduate of Merrillville High School and attended the University of Southern Indiana and Grand Canyon University. While serving Valparaiso, Joe was promoted to Sergeant in January of 2021. Joe has further served as a K9 Handler, Field Training Officer, Instructor, and a member of the Honor Guard during his career.
John Cordova is a 14-year veteran who has worked in the Patrol Division and Investigations during his career. He is a 2000 graduate of Hobart High School and earned his associate degree from Columbia College (2006). John further served in the United States Navy prior to starting his career in law enforcement. During his time with the department, John has also contributed as a K9 Handler,
DARE Instructor, and Emergency Medical Responder.
Alex Sprowl is a four-year veteran, who has worked in the Patrol Division throughout his career. He is a 2014 graduate of New Palestine High School and attended Indiana University. Alex further served in the United States Marine Corps prior to starting his law enforcement career. During his time with the department, Alex has also contributed as a K9 Handler, Field Training Officer, Instructor, Evidence Technician, and as a member of the Honor Guard.
Peter Castillo is a six-year veteran who has worked in the Patrol Division throughout his career. He is a 2012 graduate of Lake Central High School and earned his bachelor’s degree from Indiana University (2016). While serving Valparaiso, Peter was promoted to Sergeant in February of 2023. Peter has further served as a Field Training Officer, Accident Reconstructionist, Crime Scene Investigator, and Instructor during his career. Congratulations to Lieutenant Kostelnik, Lieutenant Cowser, Sergeant Cordova, Sergeant Sprowl, and Detective Sergeant Castillo!!!
