ILACP leaders honor two Rising Shields of Law Enforcement

November 23, 2020

Lieutenant Laurie Gerdes of the Gillespie Police Department and Sergeant Ryan Bivins of the Dixon Police Department were honored and recognized in their home communities this month as 2020 ILACP Rising Shields of Law Enforcement.  

“Rising Shield recipients represent the brightest young, up-and-coming law enforcement leaders in the state,” said ILACP Executive Director Ed Wojcicki. “We recognize only a small number of these every year, and these were our first honorees from Macoupin and Lee counties.”

Lt. Gerdes was honored for performing admirably in her role as a first line supervisor. She received

accolades for always being available for questions from officers whether she was on duty or off. Colleagues expressed how many times she left her home or personal life to respond to a scene to assist an officer on call. Gerdes leads by example and is motivated to follow the same requirements she places on others.

At the Dixon Police Department, Sgt. Bivins was honored for being an active contributor to the department and community, one who leads by example, and for putting the needs of other officers within his agency first. It was noted that when he sees a problem, he is quick to identify and evaluate solutions. He leads from a strong religious background and in early 2014 approached the department’s police chief about a chaplain’s program. He had  already created a policy, procedure and background for the administration. 

“Both individuals are truly deserving of this award for their major contributions to this profession,” said ILACP President Jim Black, of the Crystal Lake Police Department. “Their influence and dedication is needed now more than ever and advances a positive culture within Illinois law enforcement.” 

Typically, award recipients are recognized at the ILACP Installation Banquet during the Association’s annual conference in April. Unfortunately, in early April, leaders of the association called to cancel the conference due to the ongoing pandemic. 

That is why ILACP Vice President Dan Ryan went to Gillespie on November 12 to honor Lt. Gerdes, and why ILACP Vice President Dean Stiegemeier went to Dixon on November 16 to honor Sgt. Bivins.

A list of all Rising Shields of Law Enforcement honored by the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police is listed here. 

Photo captions

Sgt. Ryan Bivins of the Dixon Police Department receives congratulations from ILACP Vice President Dean Stiegemeier for being honored as one of two Rising Shields of Law Enforcement in 2020, a recognition bestowed by the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police. 

Lt. Laurie Gerdes, center, of the Gillespie Police Department was recognized by ILACP Vice President Dan Ryan, right, as one of two Rising Shields of Law Enforcement in 2020, a recognition bestowed by the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police. Gillespie Chief Jared DePoppe, left, nominated Gerdes for the award and was on hand for the ceremony.