The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Police Department was recognized on Tuesday, February 9, 2021, for achieving Tier 2 reaccreditation in the Illinois Law Enforcement Accreditation Program (ILEAP). Chief Alice Cary displays the plaque via Zoom, during which ILACP Vice President Mitchell R. Davis III made the virtual presentation. The U of I PD in 2012 became the first university PD to achieve ILEAP accreditation, and it has been reaccredited twice since then.
On January 6, Officer Patrick Carr was awarded the ILACP Medal of Valor award, in Dolton IL. Carr was dispatched to an armed robbery progress call. Responding without delay Officer Carr confronted one of the suspects who was wearing a ski mask. Officer Carr then ordered the suspect to get on the ground who in return reached for a firearm from his waistband. Officer Carr engaged the suspect until he fled the location by foot, now armed and dangerous. Carr pursued him on foot, when the suspect then began to fire multiple shots from a semi-automatic pistol. Carr caused the first suspect to fall, while he still pursued after him by foot. Moments later a second suspect arrived and began to fire shots as well. After exchanging gunfire the first suspect was taken into custody while the second suspect was still at-large. The second suspect was later identified and apprehended and both individuals were charged. The Illinois Chiefs honored Officer Carr, with the request of his chief, with the Medal of Valor for his bravery in apprehending a dangerous criminal.
Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly signed the Ten Shared Principles at a ceremony in downtown Chicago on Wednesday, January 6, 2021. Attendance was deliberately small due to the pandemic. Representing the NAACP State Conference was President Teresa Haley, and representing ILACP were Vice President Mitchell R. Davis III and Executive Director Ed Wojcicki. In the photo, ISP Colonel Tim Tyler holds the Principles with Chief Davis.
The Westmont Police Department was recognized November 19, 2020, for achieving Tier II of ILEAP accreditation. ILACP Vice President Lou Jogmen went to Westmont to make the presentation to Chief Jim Gunther during the Village Board meeting as part of the village’s 99th anniversary celebration. Sergeant Craig Gomorczak is the accreditation manager.
Lieutenant Laurie Gerdes of Gillespie Police Department and Sergeant Ryan Bivins of Dixon Police Department were both honored and recognized in the past week in their home communities as 2020 ILACP Rising Shields of Law Enforcement.
Lt. Gerdes was awarded 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 has left her home or personal life, to respond to a scene to assist an officer on call. Lt. Gerdes leads by example and is very motivated to follow the same requirements she places on others.
photo: Chief Jared DePoppe and Lt. Laurie Gerdes of Gillespie Police Department and ILACP VP at-Large Chief Dan Ryan of LeLand Grove Police Department.
Sgt. Bivins of Dixon Police Department, was honored for being an active contributor, one who leads by example, and recognized 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. The special part about his approach was that, prior to, he had already created a policy, procedure and background to the administration.
photo: Sgt. Ryan Bivins of Dixon Police Department and VP at-Large Dean Stiegemeier of Maple Park Police Department.
This month, Police Chief Bill Kushner of Des Plaines PD presented Officer Jimmy Armstrong an ILACP Medal of Valor for his extraordinary efforts made on November 19, 2019, when an armed robbery was committed at the Bank of America branch located in the Des Plaines area.
In a ceremony at the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center in East St. Louis. Joining him was Stanley Franklin, the NAACP East St. Louis branch president, and the East St. Louis mayor and police chief.
The commander of District 8, Captain Chad Peterson, poses with ILACP Executive Director Ed Wojcicki and Peoria NAACP President Marvin Hightower, a local pastor, before the signing. Peterson talked about the partnership he hopes to develop with the NAACP.
Seraphin poses with Minnie Pearson, left, president of the Champaign County NAACP branch, and Urbana Mayor Diane Marlin. The mayor was instrumental in requesting the World Café-style workshop, which was attended by ten Urbana sworn officers.
A Waterloo police sergeant, Trinity Daws, received the Medal of Valor from the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police on Monday, September 21, for his heroic actions in saving the lives of three people after a small single-engine
Illinois State Representative Anthony DeLuca on August 18, 2020, became the first state legislator to adopt the Ten Shared Principles that were jointly created in 2018 by the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police and the NAACP Illinois State Conference.
“I look forward to working with communities of color and law enforcement,” he wrote a newsletter last week for his constituents.
State Rep. Anthony DeLuca (center) was named ILACP’s Public Official of the Year in 2011 for his advocacy of law enforcement. At the presentation ceremony in 2012, he poses, from left, with Chief RT Finney (then the ILACP President), South Chicago Heights Chief William Joyce, Chief Pat O’Connor (past president), and Chief Timothy McCarthy (Legislative Committee). Finney, O’Connor and McCarthy are now retired.
ILACP Executive Director Ed Wojcicki attended and gave brief remarks. It was his first work-related venture out of Springfield since the COVID-19 crisis escalated in March. A press release from Western Illinois University about this event is here.
Macomb Chief Curt Barker signs the Ten Shared Principles at a public ceremony on July 20, 2020, outside the Macomb City Hall.
Rep. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysboro, received recognition on Wednesday, May 20, 2020, as the ILACP Public Official of the Year. The award was scheduled for presentation at our Legislative Reception on March 18, but was postponed until the General Assembly returned to Springfield. That happened yesterday. Bryant is the Republican spokesperson on a key committee (House Judiciary-Criminal) and frequently speaks up to address concerns raised by law enforcement in Illinois. She was outspoken against the cannabis legalization bill in 2019, for example. Wojcicki thanked her for her support as he kept an appropriate social distance outside the Bank of Springfield Center in downtown Springfield, where the House of Representatives later convened. Earlier this year, DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin was also recognized by the Illinois Chiefs as a Public Official of the Year. The press release is here.
Chief James R. Black was sworn in as the 72nd President of Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police on May 1, 2020.
“I am excited about what the future may hold for the association and our profession,” Black said. “Never in my wildest imagination did I ever think we would be policing during a global pandemic. In the blink of an eye we went from fighting crime to fighting our lawmakers over recreational cannabis use to fighting an invisible enemy. For this, I can’t thank the men and women on the front lines enough for their courage and perseverance during these troubled times.”
A prominent state’s attorney and a southern Illinois state representative have been named Public Officials of the Year by the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police. They are:
The Skokie Police Department has been re-accredited for ILEAP, and ILACP Vice President Lou Jogmen went to the Skokie Village Board meeting on Tuesday, March 3, 2020 to make a presentation. From left are Deputy Chief Brian Baker, Mayor George Van Dusen, Administrative Assistant Susan Kendall, Chief Anthony Scarpelli, Jogmen, Village Manager John Lockerby, and Deputy Chief Paul Weinman.
ILACP is honored to be a regular part of the Southern Illinois Criminal Justice Summit, held this week in Mt. Vernon. It was the 20th summit of its kind organized by southern Illinois law enforcement leaders in collaboration with people such as the U.S. Attorney, Illinois State Police, SILEC, and others. This year, ILACP lobbyist John Millner and Executive Director Ed Wojcicki provided an update on current legislation that is alive in Springfield, and they encouraged people to contact their reps and senators about ILACP priority issues. ILACP Vice Presidents Jim Black (Crystal Lake) and Dan Ryan (Leland Grove) attended the reception Tuesday evening that was sponsored by the Illinois Chiefs, and ILACP had a vendor’s booth.
Eleven police agencies gathered with students at Kankakee Community College on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2020, and signed the Ten Shared Principles. This was the second county-wide ceremony of its kind; the other took place last year in Sangamon County. ILACP Executive Director Ed Wojcicki attended the program, where the Kankakee Community College president spoke about the importance of the event. The college released this statement: https://www.ilchiefs.org/kankakee-shared-principles.
ILACP Vice President Dean Stiegemeier attended the Carol Stream Village Board meeting on February 18, 2020, to recognize two leaders who became Certified Eligible in the ILACP Chief Certification Program. The two are Commander Don Cummings (left) and Commander CJ Incrocci. The program is open to chiefs and to command staff interested in becoming chiefs and demonstrates a high level of education, training, and experience in law enforcement. Persons who get the “Certified Eligible” designation become recognized as “Certified Police Chiefs” when they become a chief either at their current department or at another Illinois department.
Thornton Township High School District 205 became the first school district to adopt the Ten Shared Principles. This happened at a program on February 14, 2020. ILACP Vice President Mitchell R. Davis III attended and posted this message on Facebook: “Attended the Thornton Township High School District 205 Restorative Justice Summit and participated in a ceremony where they became the 1st School District ever to adopt the NAACP/ILACP 10 Shared Principles!!! There are some AMAZING young people in District 205!!!”
Special Olympics Illinois recognized the Oak Brook Police Department and Detective Brian Gimpel of the O’Fallon Police Department with the prestigious Flame of Hope award at the Law Enforcement Torch Run kickoff on Friday, January 31, in Bloomington. More information about these awards will be in the next issue of Command magazine. Both Gimpel and Oak Brook officers posed with Special Olympics athletes after getting the recognition.
ILACP leaders agreed on the top legislative priorities for 2020 in a daylong meeting yesterday. Nearly 100 members gathered in three locations via videoconference to review bills and then discuss priorities.
The Galesburg Police Department signed on to the Ten Shared Principles on Tuesday, January 21, 2020, at the Galesburg City Council meeting. Chief Russ Idle invited Brittany Grimes, president of the Galesburg NAACP, to participate in the ceremony. Ms. Grimes attended a World Café sponsored by the Illinois Chiefs and the NAACP Illinois State Conference in January 2019.
More than 150 people – the largest of all four sessions – attended the final marijuana training session on January 7 at Tuscany Falls in Mokena. The South Suburban Chiefs, whose president is ILACP Vice President Mitchell R. Davis III (chief in Hazel Crest) helped to promote this training session in Mokena.
Nearly 350 people registered to attend the four marijuana training sessions in Peoria, O'Fallon, Elgin and Mokena. The idea to increase our understanding of how state’s attorneys’ offices will address the new marijuana law.
We are grateful to our main presenter, Chief Marc Maton of Lemont, who chairs the ILACP Legislative Committee. He and ILACP legal advisor Don Zoufal were on the agenda for all four sessions.
Jodi Hoos and Marc Maton in Peoria ( First photo)
Beth Nester, Don Zoufal, and Jill Leka in O’Fallon Marc Maton gives an overview of the law at all the sessions. Pictured here in Peoria. (Center photo)
Ben Gehrt in Elgin (Last photo)
Hannah Thayer, Joe McMahon, and Marilyn Hite Ross in Elgin
Illinois State Police Sgt. Delila Garcia was recognized Wednesday, December 11, 2019, during the Executive Board meeting of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police for her great work and assistance in planning the press conference for ILACP’s Speed Awareness Day in July. Making the presentation was ILACP Vice President Lou Jogmen, chief in Highland Park.
Glenwood Chief Derek Peddycord was honored Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2019, at the Village Board Meeting for achieving the status of Certified Police Chief, as designated by the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police. Making the presentation was ILACP Vice President Mitchell R. Davis III. Congratulating Chief Peddycord was Glenwood Mayor Ronald Gardiner and village trustees.
November
ILACP 2nd Vice President Mitchell R. Davis III presented four Medal of Valor Awards on November 19, 2019, to the law enforcement personnel involved for their heroic attempt and success. On August 13, 2018, three Park Forest law enforcement personnel— Sergeant Julius Moore and Officers David Habecker and Charles Karl— and one officer from Richton Park PD, Ryan Dahlberg of Richton Park PD, responded to a report that a victim had been shot on the 400 block of Suwanee Street in Park Forest, Illinois, where the suspect fled the scene. ILACP 2nd VP Mitchell R. Davis III also presented Ms. Wax with a Certificate of Recognition. the honor. The presentations occurred during a Park Forest Village Board meeting.
Congratulations to Jeff Hunter of Woodridge on being this year's Harley-Davidson Raffle winner! On November 2, each of the six finalists from across Illinois were invited to Chi-Town Harley Davidson to be a part of the event. Jeff was lucky enough to have chosen the golden key that started the engine to a brand-new Harley Street-Glide! He purchased his ticket at this year's Dunkin' Cop on a Rooftop event in Woodridge. Jeff and his family have been long time supporters of the athletes of Special Olympics Illinois, and were incredibly surprised by not only being a finalist for this year's raffle but also being the sole winner of the bike.
Rantoul Chief Anthony Brown enjoyed recognition as a Certified Police Chief at his village board meeting on Tuesday, November 12, 2019. Presenting the plaque was ILACP Executive Director Ed Wojcicki, left, joined by Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith.
Oak Forest Deputy Chief Jason Reid, right, addresses the audience after being recognized November 12, 2019, as “Certified Eligible” by ILACP Vice President William Kushner. To be “certified eligible” means that Reid has passed all the requirements in the ILACP Voluntary Police Chief Certification Program. Here is the list of Certified Police Chiefs and those who are certified eligible.
October
On Tuesday, October 29 Police Chief Steven R. Casstevens, of the Buffalo Grove Police Department, was sworn in as the President of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, in Chicago. Chief Kristen Ziman, of the Aurora Police Department, was also sworn in and will sit on the IACP Executive Board as the Vice President at Large. Congratulations!
The DeKalb Police Department received recognition on Monday, October 14, 2019, from ILACP Vice President Dean Stiegemeier (left) for achieving ILEAP recognition. Accepting the plaque were DeKalb Chief John Petragallo (center) and Commander Jason Leverton, who served as Accreditation Manager. The DeKalb PD took the extra step of releasing the ILEAP assessors’ report to the public, and it received favorable media attention in the local newspaper for doing so. “I commend the department for making its report available to the local media and the public,” said ILACP Executive Director Ed Wojcicki. “That’s a great way to be transparent and to provide a lot more information than citizens usually get about how a police department functions. Congratulations to the DeKalb PD!”
Bloomington PD Assistant Chief Greg Scott (left) accepts accolades on Monday, October 14, 2019, when ILACP Past President Brian Fengel went to the City Council meeting to recognize the Bloomington PD for achieving ILEAP recognition. There are now 38 agencies in good standing with the prestigious Illinois Law Enforcement Accreditation Program.
Chief Tom Weitzel, of Riverside PD was featured in the September/October issue of Campus and Security Life Safety on collaborative efforts between police and private security firms.
There are two essential components to effective school safety—security systems and police response. For years, the two have been divided and seen as two separate entities—the first provided by integrators, and the second provided by the city or state police department. Chief Tom Weitzel, the Riverside, Illinois Police Department’s chief of police, suggests that if the two were blended into a partnership, security measures could become more effective than they are when working autonomously. Weitzel, who oversees security for the Riverside school district, said that by bringing the two organizations together, industry leaders and government officials can create a school safety plan with better integration and communication.
To read the full article, please click here.
ILACP President Steven Stelter and Legislative Chair Marc Maton participated in forum yesterday (October 3, 2019) in Lombard and based his presentation primarily on that FAQ. He is shown in the picture with Ben Gehrt, an attorney from Clark Baird Smith.
Niles Chief Luis Tigera, right, receives congratulations from his Village Board and ILACP Vice President William Kushner when the Niles PD was recognized on September 24, 2019, for achieving ILEAP accreditation.
On Thursday, October 3, the ILACP and NAACP Illinois State Conference hosted the first of its kind "10 Shared Principles" Cafe event with high school students at Homewood Flossmoor High School. A video from the event coming soon.
September
The Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police (ILACP) Traffic Safety Committee understands the importance of tying together the educational and engineering component of rail safety to the enforcement component of rail safety that law enforcement agencies can bring to the table. On Monday, September 23, several ILACP members, including ILACP President, Steven Stelter, attended the Illinois Rail Safety Week Press Conference in Homewood, Illinois.
“Hero for the day” is an event that aims to rebuild trust between police and youth. One hundred students in Naperville received a pair of Super Heroic shoes donated by designer Jason Mayden through a joint effort between the Naperville PD and the Unity Partnership. The organizations hope that through these “Hero for a Day” events, a new long term partnership will be created.
Thirty ILACP leaders attended the Annual Planning meeting, on September 25, at the Westchester Village Hall. At this meeting, we released the first results of the Member Survey conducted this month. Here are the five ILACP services most valued by chiefs:
- Legislative Alert updates
- Lobbying
- Professional networking
- Half-day one-topic workshops
- COMMAND magazine
Rolling Meadows Chief John Nowacki, right, receives congratulations from his City Council and ILACP Vice President William Kushner when the Rolling Meadows PD was recognized on September 10, 2019, for achieving ILEAP accreditation.
August
Chief Ron Stone (right) of the University of Illinois Police Department in Urbana displays the Ten Shared Principles on August 15, 2019, when he and the Champaign County NAACP held a joint ceremony to reinforce their importance. The department actually adopted the Shared Principles last year. Minnie Pearson, president of the NAACP Champaign County Branch, considered the ceremony a positive step to build a stronger relationship between people of color and the police.
Oak Forest Police Chief Tim Kristin enjoys the day when his department was recognized on August 27, 2019, by ILACP VP, Mitchell R. Davis, III, for achieving ILEAP re-accreditation. Oak Forest PD was first accredited in 2015.
On August 22, Chief Ziman, of the Aurora Police Department, gave her first presentation at the ILEAS Training Center in Urbana, IL. It was well-received by our members and got rave reviews. "Some called it inspirational, and I agree," said ILACP Executive Director Ed Wojcicki. "What a gift it is to anybody in Illinois to hear this presentation about what happened - and the lessons learned, expressed with some candor - and why it's so important to be so mindful of the well-being of your officers."
On August 6, many neighborhoods throughout the state held a variety of family-friendly events in an effort to break down barriers between members of law enforcement and the communities they serve by urging residents to meet officers face to face during an evening of fun. This annual event encourages neighborhoods to turn on their outdoor lights and spend the evening outside with neighbors, police and community leaders.
Left photo: ILACP 2nd-VP, Chief Mitchell R. Davis, III of the Hazel Crest PD, and his staff posed for a night of fun.
Right photo: Officer Brandon Rolfs, of Decatur PD, was recognized at National Night Out as an Anti-Crime Ambassador.
July
Governor JB Pritzker signed a package of legislation to strengthen penalties for life-threatening violations on roadways in an effort to protect law enforcement officers, first responders and road workers. Several state troopers have lost their lives this year on the state’s roadways; two were killed when drivers violated Scott’s Law. Senate Bill 2038, was among several of the bills that were signed. The measure creates the Move Over Task Force to study the causes of violations and ways to protect law enforcement, emergency responders and residents of the state. Chief Lou Jogmen of Highland Park, the ILACP 3rd-Vice President, will represent the Illinois Chiefs on this task force.
The bill signing took place at the Rockford Police Department on Tuesday July 30. Rockford Chief of Police Daniel O'Shea, Rockford Mayor Thomas McNamara and State Representative John Cabello were in attendance. Chief O'Shea and Roscoe Chief Jamie Evans (not shown) agreed to attend the bill signing for the Illinois Chiefs.
The Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police coordinated Illinois Speed Awareness Day on July 24th. This ILACP traffic safety initiative strives to promote safety for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists through enforcement and education. The ILACP continues to develop partnerships designed to create a strong, supportive traffic safety culture throughout Illinois to reduce the number of speed related incidents.
On July 24th ILACP 3rd-Vice President, Chief Lou Jogmen, of the Highland Park Police Department gives remarks at the ISAD press conference at the IL Tollway Headquarters/ISP District 15 Headquarters in Downer's Grove.
The AMITA Health Holy Family Medical Center joined on Monday, July 22, for the dedication and blessing of a brand new unit specialized for law enforcement professionals. The unit is the only substance abuse facility made available exclusively to treat law enforcement officers throughout the Chicagoland area and beyond. The mission of the organizers, of which includes VP at large Chief William Kushner, is to remove the stigma of substance abuse by providing a confidential environment to protect the individuals who serve and protect the community.
June
On June 27, The Illinois NAACP State Conference and Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police joined to host a World Cafe Summit in Peoria. Nearly 200 people attended the event, including Illinois Lieutenant Governor, Juliana Stratton. The event followed a series of 9 previous World Cafe discussions held around the state. Participants discussed the 10 Shared Principles and next steps for the community and law enforcement in the continued effort to rebuild trust and relationships. Video coming soon.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run raised $4.75 million – a record in Illinois – in the past year for Special Olympics. Chief Steven Stelter of Westchester, who is the ILACP President and the State Torch Run Director, made the announcement Friday, June 7, during the opening ceremony of the Summer Games in Normal.
In the Torch Run, the Flame of Hope traveled 1,500 miles on 23 different “legs” through hundreds of Illinois communities, leading up to the opening ceremony in Hancock Stadium at Illinois State University. Joining Stelter in the final leg of the Torch Run was ILACP Vice President Mitchell R. Davis III of Hazel Crest. Davis then spent the next morning giving medals to proud athletes.
Tom Campion (shown below), Bob Marsh, and Kammie Juzwin of the ILACP Officer Wellness Committee were three of the presenters at the Bridge the Gap training session in Springfield on June 11, 2019.
Chief Chris Locke of the Fairview Heights Police Department and Fairview Heights city officials signed the NAACP-ILACP 10 Shared Principles on Monday June 10, 2019.
May 2019
Illinois State University Police Department Chief Aaron Woodruff, second from left, enjoys the day when his department was recognized May 22, 2019, on the Normal campus for achieving ILEAP accreditation. Also pictured, from left, are Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Katy Killian; Deputy Chief Nichol Bleichner; Woodruff; ILACP Past President Brian Fengel; ISU President Larry Dietz; and Vice President for Student Affairs Levester "LJ" Johnson.
On May 7, Jim and Colleen MacRunnels received an ILACP Outstanding Citizen Award for exemplifying exceptional leadership by spearheading multiple fundraising opportunities for Special Olympics Illinois and the Maple Park Police Department. Through their guidance and persistent efforts, the Maple Park Police Department has been one of the top fundraising agencies for the past eight years. The two have helped generate more than $570,000 for Special Olympics– and helped the small Maple Park PD be first in the state in 2013 and 2014.
Chief Steven Stelter was sworn in Friday, April 26, as the 71st president of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police. Also sworn in were other members of the Board of Officers for 2019-2020:
photo'd: William Kushner, Vice President at-Large, Region 3, Des Plaines, Dean Stiegemeier, Vice President at-Large, Region 2, Maple Park, Dan Ryan, Vice President at-Large, Region 1, Leland Grove, Brian Fengel, Immediate Past President, Bartonville, Steven Stelter, ILACP President, Westchester, Jim Black, 1st Vice President, Crystal Lake, Mitchell R. Davis III, 2nd Vice President, Hazel Crest, Lou Jogmen, 3rd Vice President, Highland Park (newly elected), James R. Kruger Jr., Oak Brook
April 2019
The Sycamore Police Department was recognized Monday, April 15, 2019 for achieving ILEAP reaccreditation. Making the presentation was ILACP Vice President Dean Stiegemeier. Accepting the plaque were Sycamore Chief Jim Winters and Officer Dana Allen, the accreditation manager.
The Illinois Chiefs’ Traffic Safety Committee helped to launch our Illinois Distracted Driving Awareness Week campaign at a press conference Tuesday, April 16, 2019, at the North Aurora Police Department. ILACP Vice President Dean Stiegemeier, chief of the Maple Park Police Department, spoke on behalf of the Illinois Chiefs at the press conference.
On April 10, the ILACP held its annual Lobby Day at the Illinois State Capitol. Members met with the Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton and members of the General Assembly to discuss the association's top legislative priorities. Pictured: John Millner, Chief Terry Lemming, Chief Marc Maton, Chief Steve Stelter, Lt. Gov Juliana Stratton, Chief Brian Fengel, Chief Mitchell Davis III, Ed Wojcicki
The Lockport Police Department was recognized April 3, 2019, for achieving ILEAP Accreditation (Illinois Law Enforcement Accreditation Program). ILACP Vice President Bill Kushner (right) made the presentation to Lockport Chief Terry Lemming, left, Deputy Chief Ron Huff, and Mayor Steve Streit.
The Office for Public Safety at Western Illinois University was recognized April 2, 2019, by ILACP President Brian Fengel (center) for achieving ILEAP Accreditation (Illinois Law Enforcement Accreditation Program). From left are Bill Polley, WIU Interim VP for Administrative Services; Derek Watts, OPS Interim Director; Fengel; Sgt. Curt Bilbrey, accreditation manager; and Jack Thomas, president of WIU.
March 2019
Aurora Police Chief Kristen Ziman and other first responder personnel were recognized by the Illinois House of Representatives on Wednesday, March 13. On Feb. 15, a disgruntled employee fatally shot five people and wounded five officers at the Henry Pratt Co. warehouse in Aurora. Police were called to the scene just before 1:30 p.m. Friday. Within five minutes, Martin had shot the five officers who arrived at the warehouse. The shooter hid within the 29,000-square-foot warehouse and continued to fire at law enforcement personnel. Rep. Wheeler (R-Oswego) gave an impassioned floor speech honoring all first responders involved for their courage and hard work during the traumatic event.
February 2019
The Orland Park Police Department was recognized this week by ILACP VP Chief Mitchell R. Davis, III (Middle) with its ILEAP reaccreditation plaque. There are 31 ILEAP-accredited agencies, and another two dozen agencies are looking into this increasingly popular program.
Photo'd (From left to right): Commander Brian West, Lieutenant Eric Rossi, Orland Park Chief Timothy McCarthy, Trustee Pat Gira, ILACP VP Chief Mitchell R. Davis, III, Mayor Keith Pekau, Orland Park Deputy Chief Joseph Mitchell and Investigations Commander Anthony Farrell
The Legislative Committee met on February 15 at the Oak Brook Police Department. An additional group of committee members met at a second site at the O'Fallon Police Department where a virtual meeting was set up.
Chief Marc Maton of the Lemont Police Department led the discussion by introducing the ILACP top priorities for 2019 and this year's Public Official(s) of the Year.
We will send a Legislative Update with details about these priorities in the next few days.
O’Fallon Police Chief Eric Van Hook has been named the 2019 Chief of the Year by the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police. The award is for leadership in his community, leadership in his own police department, and service to the association. ILACP is a 1,300-member organization representing more than 450 agencies in Illinois.
Van Hook will receive the award April 26 during the association’s Annual Awards Banquet in Oak Brook, Illinois. He was selected by the association’s Board of Officers from a strong pool of nominations from different parts of Illinois. “Chief Van Hook is highly regarded as a law enforcement leader in the Metro East and now, throughout the state,” said Ed Wojcicki, the ILACP Executive Director. “It was impressive to read letters of support from a diverse variety of O’Fallon community leaders. He is proactively addressing every major issue facing law enforcement today, including community policing, recruiting minorities, active shooter training in schools, officer wellness, and building relationships of trust. His leadership is as solid as it gets in Illinois law enforcement.”
The Elmhurst Police Department was recognized this week by ILACP President Brian Fengel (second from right) with its ILEAP Accreditation plaque. Elmhurst Chief Michael Ruth is at left. There are now 30 ILEAP-accredited agencies, and another two dozen agencies are looking into this increasingly popular program.
January 2019
Yesterday, the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police and the NAACP succeeded in bringing together 42 law enforcement leaders and NAACP/minority group leaders in Springfield, IL. It is important to note that the World Cafes are designed to bring people together to build trust and relationships. The participants did indeed build trust with each other in the course of the conversations, and concluded that they wanted to bring younger people to the table. The organizers will be heading to Galesburg, IL this afternoon to continue the World Cafe series.
December 2018
Shop With A Cop of Dundee Township held their annual event on Saturday December 8th. Shop with a Cop (SWAC) served 125 children from 55 families on Saturday. Each child was given $100 to spend, along with a new winter coat. Each family was given a gift certificate from Village Fresh Market (Carpentersville grocery store) to help with purchasing a holiday meal.
Community volunteers, as well as Police Officers from the following departments made this event possible: Carpentersville, East Dundee, West Dundee, Gilberts, Pingree Grove, Sleepy Hollow, Maple Park, Roundlake and the Illinois State Police. Carpentersville Walmart Supercenter hosted the event.
The Lake Zurich Police Department again participated in the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program this holiday season. The department had a very successful year thanks to the generous donations from the Lake Zurich community. The toy donations will bring much happiness to many children in the area.
The ILACP Board of Officers and Executive Board met yesterday at the Illinois State Police Headquarters in Springfield and adopted a resolution endorsing the FBI's new national use-of-force new data collection, set to begin January 1. The data collection pilot study began in 2017. The International Association of Chiefs of Police was heavily involved in the development of this process. The Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police has also provided statewide and national leadership on the topic of use of force. In adopting the resolution, the association encourages all agencies to participate in this FBI data collection effort.
On December 7, three of our leaders and the ILACP Executive Director met with Lt. Gov-Elect Juliana Stratton to talk about criminal justice issues. A good conversation! Lemont Chief Marc Maton is next to ILACP Executive Director Ed Wojcicki, with ILACP President Brian Fengel of Bartonville and 1st VP Steven Stelter of Westchester.
The O’Fallon Police Department was recognized at the city council meeting Monday night for achieving ILEAP accreditation. From left are Lt. Kerry Andrews, Lt. David Matevey, Captain Jim Cavins (accreditation manager), Chief Eric Van Hook, ILACP Vice President Dan Ryan (who made the presentation), Leah Wilson, and Mayor Herb Roach. In front is Ryan Lotz, who was the mayor for the day.
November 2018
Rock Island PD Police Chief Jeff Van Huizen (left) and Mayor Mike Thoms (right) enjoy the accolades from ILACP President Brian Fengel on Monday, November 12, when the Rock Island PD was publicly recognized for being reaccredited in the Illinois Law Enforcement Accreditation Program (ILEAP).
October 2018
Commander Michael Zochert of the Carol Stream Police Department (left) was recognized Monday, October 15, by ILACP Vice President Dean Stiegemeier for successfully completing the Police Chief Certification process and receiving his certificate as a Certified Eligible Police Chief.
On August 5, 2017, officers responded to a call of a woman obstructing traffic while swinging a deadly weapon and screaming, “I will not be moved”. Despite numerous commands, the woman refused to comply, forcing officers to deploy tasers. The initial action resulted in little or no effect, and the woman continued to display erratic behavior. After managing the high-risk situation, officers were finally able to detain her. Each officer involved displayed extraordinary professionalism and heroism in an extremely dangerous event.
Vice President Chief Mitchell R. Davis, III presented six Medal of Valor awards to following: Commander Lee Elliot (PFPD), Richton Park Police Officer Alonzo Hedgepeth, Officer Meghan Vold (PFPD), Officer Christopher Batzel (now with Countryside PD), Officer Karolis Sitkauskas (PFPD). Not pictured is recipient Officer Tom Naughton (PFPD).
The Kankakee Police Department was also recognized on Monday, October 1. ILACP Vice President Mitchell R. Davis III (right) presented the ILEAP reaccreditation award. Representing the police department at the ceremony were acting Chief Willie Hunt (middle). Also pictured are Chasity Wells-Armstrong mayor of Kankakee (middle). A list of all ILEAP-accredited agencies is here.
The Channahon Police Department was recognized on Monday, October 1, by ILACP Vice President Dean Stiegemeier (left) for achieving ILEAP reaccreditation. Representing the police department at the ceremony were Channahon Chief Shane Casey (right) and Sgt. Jon Jackubowski, Accreditation Manager.
September 2018
On Wednesday, September 26, the Board of Officers and Committee Chairs joined for the 2018 ILACP Annual Planning meeting at the Lemont Police Department in Lemont, IL. The group discussed a variety of topics which included ways to improve the Association in the year to come. Chief Maton, of the Lemont Police Department, chair of the Legislative Committee spearheaded the discussion on this year's legislative activity. The group also reviewed and updated ILACP committee goals and objectives for 2019.
August 2018
The Macomb Police Department received public recognition on Monday, August 27, 2018, for achieving Tier 2 in the Illinois Law Enforcement Accreditation Program (ILEAP). Accreditation is the process of comparing policies to best practices and having the department go through a peer review and audit. The goal is to reduce risk and liability while raising safety for the officers. The Macomb PD initially was accredited in 2012 and has since been reaccredited to the higher standards of Tier 2. Pictured from left are Macomb Chief Curt Barker; Accreditation Manager, Lieutenant Jeff Hamer; and ILACP Vice resident at-Large Chief Dan Ryan, who made the presentation.
Mt. Prospect Chief John Koziol (left) receives congratulations from ILACP Vice President Steven Stelter after being recognized for achieving ILEAP accreditation. The presentation occurred during a recent Mt. Prospect Village Board meeting.
Governor Bruce Rauner signed SB 3023 on Wednesday, August 22, creating the Community-Law Enforcement Partnership for Deflection and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Act. It allows law enforcement to help individuals struggling with addiction in certain circumstances go to a treatment center instead of jail. The substance abuse deflection program is now Public Act 100-1025.The ILACP strongly supported this bill, with Mundelein Chief Eric Guenther and former Dixon Chief Danny Langloss (now Dixon’s city manager) testifying in Springfield in support of the bill. Shown (from left) are: Steven Howell, Jr., Dixon police chief; Laura Brookes, director of policy at Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities; Chief Brian Fengel of Bartonville, ILACP president; Governor Rauner; Chief Guenther; Chief Dan Ryan of Leland Grove, ILACP vice president-at large; Langloss; and Detective Jeff Ragan, Dixon Police Department. Here is a story about how this deflection program works in Dixon.
On August 14, the ILACP Board of Directors cut the ribbon at the entrance of the annual Expo, formally known as the Midwest Security and Police Conference/Expo at the Tinley Park Convention Center.
Chief Craig Stone, center, the new police chief at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, accepts a plaque on August 10, 2018, acknowledging re-accreditation of his department for Tier II in the Illinois Law Enforcement Accreditation Program (ILEAP). From left are UI Associate Chancellor Mike DeLorenzo, ILACP’s Ed Wojcicki, Chief Stone, Lt. Joan Fiesta and Lt. Joe McCullough.
July 2018
ILACP President Brian Fengel (right) was among those present Monday, July 30, 2018, in Chicago when Governor Rauner signed HB 5513, which creates a new Illinois Lottery scratch-off game from which proceeds will fund police memorials, support for the families of officers killed or severely injured in the line of duty, and protective vest replacements for officers.
The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) became the first national organization to sign on to the 10 Shared priciples adopted by the ILACP and the NAACP. NOBLE signed on, on July 30, 2018 during its 42nd Annual Training Conference and Exhibition in Florida. Signing for the Illinois Chiefs, was 3rd Vice President Mitchell R. Davis, III of Hazel Crest, along with Clarence E. Cox, III, National President of NOBLE .
On Friday, July 20th, the Special Olympics celebrated its 50th anniversary in Chicago. Pictured below are members from the Crystal Lake Police Department and CLPD Officer Ed Pluviose along with Chief Hoey (South Beloit PD) and ILACP 1st Vice President Chief Steve Stelter accepting the Flame of Hope as it arrived from Boston. As part of this historic celebration, the Law Enforcement Torch Run will hosted a Commemorative Torch Run utilizing the Chicago Park District’s bike path that runs along Lake Michigan in downtown Chicago.
The ILACP Traffic Safety Committee and Families Against Chronic Excessive Speeding (FACES4) understands the importance of tying together the legislative, educational and engineering component of speed awareness to the enforcement component of speed awareness that law enforcement agencies can bring to the table. On this one day campaign, Speed Awareness advocates joined at a press conference to continue building partnerships that aim to keep children and families safe while driving. Lt. Governor Evelyn Sanguinetti presented a proclamation from the governor’s office.
A few months after the events took place in Ferguson, MO, the ILACP and the NAACP partnered to form a series of open discussions, or ‘World Cafes’, to address the mistrust between the community and members of law enforcement. In these ‘World Cafes’, chiefs of police meet with leaders from communities of color to specifically discuss “what most needs our attention moving forward”. On Wednesday, July 25, the fifth 'World Cafe' was held in the Chicagoland area where leaders discussed the “10 Shared Principles” and participated in an interactive workshop. A video from the event coming soon!
ILACP President Brian Fengel (center) presents the ILEAP plaque of certification to Oak Brook Chief James R. Kruger, Jr. (left), and to Commander Ben Kadolph, Oak Brook accreditation manager, on July 10, 2018.
Vice President Chief Davis (far left) joined U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly at a Policing Strategies Working Group discussion, in Chicago on Monday, July 9.
June 2018
Two ILACP members of the Board of Officers were honored in Oakbrook Terrace on June 20, 2018, at the 22nd Salute to Those Who Make a Difference, a ceremony of the Illinois State Crime Commission. ILACP Past President James R. Kruger, Jr. (left), received the Award of Distinction in Law Enforcement, and 3rd Vice President Mitchell R. Davis III was named Police Chief of the Year. They pose with the evening's master of ceremonies, Ray Stevens of Chicago's WLS radio.
On June 15, 2018, Mayor Herb Roach, along with O'Fallon Chief Eric Van Hook and local NAACP President Francine Nicholson signed a resolution affirming the adoption of the “Ten Shared Principles”, at the City Council Meeting in O'Fallon, Illinois.
Chief Lou Jogmen, of Highland Park, received Police Chief Certification recognition from ILACP Vice President Bill Kushner on June 13, 2018.
Vice President Dan Ryan, Metropolis Chief Harry Masse and Mayor Billy McDaniel honor Sgt. Cody Brown, with a 2017 Life Saving Award on June 13, 2018.
Photo: From left: Vice President Ryan, Sgt. Cody Brown, Chief Masse and Mayor Billy McDaniel.
U.S. Army Major Matt Goodwin (above) receives his Certified Police Chief certificate November 29, 2017, in Springfield, in front a roomful of his Army colleagues and commander at the U.S. Army Reserve Training Center. He was eligible because of his "chief of police" title in the military. Executive Director Ed Wojcicki made the presentation.
March 2018
The Southern Illinois University Carbondale Department of Public Safety Achieved Tier II ILEAP Accreditation. Chief Benjamin Newman (right) and Corporal Molly Pyatt, accreditation manager, accepted the plaque from ILACP Executive Director Ed Wojcicki on March 19, 2018, during a ceremony on the Carbondale campus.
November 2017
Regina Brent of the Unity Partnership in DuPage County gives a report at a meeting featuring police-min7, 2017, at
Hamburger University in Oak Brook, Illinois. She was collaborating with Lake Zurich Chief Steve Husak, left; Captain Brian Daniell of the Union Pacific Railroad PD; Northlake Chief Norm Nissen; and Peoria Park District PD Chief Sylvester Bush.
East Moline Police Chief John Reynolds and Pastor P. Wonder Harris of the Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in East Moline at a meeting featuring police-minority partnerships around the state on November 17, 2017, at Hamburger University in Oak Brook, Illinois.
Monmouth Police Chief Joe Switzer is acknowledged at the Monmouth City Council meeting on November 6, 2017, for achieving Police Chief Certification by ILACP Executive Director Ed Wojcicki.
Officer Dallas of the Dixon PD named IACP Officer of the Year
Officer Mark Dallas of the Dixon Police Department was named IACP Foundation's Officer of the Year after a heroic rescue at Dixon High School. On May 16, Dallas held the lives of all of Dixon High School students and staff in his hands after stopping a shooter inside the high School. When Dixon heard several shots ring out, he confronted the teen in the hallway. After the shooter fired at him several times, Dallas fired back hitting the former student in the shoulder. Last week and the national IACP conference in Orlando, Florida, the IACP Foundation recognized Dallas for his act of heroism naming him Officer of the Year.
Park Forest Medal of Valor Award Presentation
On August 5, 2017, officers responded to a call of a woman obstructing traffic while swinging a deadly weapon and screaming, “I will not be moved”. Despite numerous commands, the woman refused to comply, forcing officers to deploy tasers. The initial action resulted in little or no effect, and the woman continued to display erratic behavior. After managing the high-risk situation, officers were finally able to detain her. Each officer involved displayed extraordinary professionalism and heroism in an extremely dangerous event.
Vice President Chief Mitchell R. Davis, III presented six Medal of Valor awards to following: Commander Lee Elliot (PFPD), Richton Park Police Officer Alonzo Hedgepeth, Officer Meghan Vold (PFPD), Officer Christopher Batzel (now with Countryside PD), Officer Karolis Sitkauskas (PFPD). Not pictured is recipient Officer Tom Naughton (PFPD).
Channahon, Kankakee recognized for ILEAP reaccreditation
The Channahon Police Department was recognized on Monday, October 1, by ILACP Vice President Dean Stiegemeier (left) for achieving ILEAP reaccreditation. Representing the police department at the ceremony were Channahon Chief Shane Casey (right) and Sgt. Jon Jackubowski, Accreditation Manager.
The Kankakee Police Department was also recognized on Monday, October 1. ILACP Vice President Mitchell R. Davis III (right) presented the ILEAP reaccreditation award. Representing the police department at the ceremony were acting Chief Willie Hunt (middle). Also pictured are Chasity Wells-Armstrong mayor of Kankakee (middle). A list of all ILEAP-accredited agencies is here.
