A first generation American, John grew up in the western suburbs and went to Proviso East High School. He attended Lewis University, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in social justice. He also has a Master’s Degree in Law Enforcement Administration from Western Illinois University. He began working as a police officer in Elmhurst in 1972, and rose through the chain of command to become Chief.

During his 16 year tenure as Chief John worked hard to build strong safe communities for families. He was the founder and chairman of DuPage County Advisory Commission on Gangs. As Chief he was part of the Governor’s Council on Hate Crimes. John also served as President of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police. John was named “Chief of the Year” by the Illinois State Crime Commission, and received the "Thrasher Award: Most Effective American City Police Chief" for 1997-98.

After he left the Elmhurst Police Department John felt he needed to do more to help for the communities around him. He ran for state rep in the 55th district. John took the first hand knowledge that gained from being a police officer and put it to work for the residents of Illinois. He was then appointed to the State Senate for the 28th district.

During his legislative career John has fought hard for his constituents and for the state.
• John has fought to grow business in Illinois to put our friends and neighbors back to work.
• John has worked across the aisle to ensure that education is one of the state’s top priorities.
• John is constantly focused on making Illinois a safer more livable place for families.
• John brought forward ethics reform legislation to increase transparency and accountability in Illinois government.
• John has been a champion of ending wasteful spending and requiring state government it live within its means.
 
John currently lives with his wife Debbie in Carol Stream. They have two children and one new grandchild.