Sen. Doris Turner | Courtesy photo
Sen. Doris Turner | Courtesy photo
Sen. Doris Turner (D-Decatur) marked the services the Illinois State Police offers as the agency turns 100 years old this month.
“One hundred years ago, our state welcomed the first class of state police officers sworn to protect and serve the people of Illinois,” Turner posted on her website. “After a century of excellence, we thank each officer who put their life on the line to ensure the safety and prosperity of Illinois.”
“Our state is undoubtedly a safer place because of the brave men and women who put on a uniform to protect our state,” Turner said. “I am proud to help recognize an exemplary organization that protects our communities in every corner of the state.”
The agency has announced its advances in forensic science. The Southern Illinoisan recently reported ISP is building labs and an administrative facility. The site reported ISP Director Brendan Kelly said this will also reduce its case backlog.
“If we want to reduce crime, we have to solve crime,” Kelly said, according to the Southern Illinoisan. “That’s something that the governor says all the time and he’s absolutely right. And to do that, we need to ensure that we are using sound forensic science, the most effective testing procedures, and the latest technology. Catching and prosecuting those who break the law can reduce and deter crime and forensic services are critical to that work.”
On March 29, the Illinois Senate adopted Senate Resolution 0934, which declared that April 2022 is to be known as Illinois State Police Centennial Month.
The agency grew not only in services but also in numbers. An ISP release said the agency commissioned 14 new troopers of Cadet Class 134 at a graduation ceremony at the Illinois State Police Academy.
According to the Illinois State Police, the agency began with eight highway patrol officers overseen by director John J. Stack. By the agency’s 50th anniversary, it had grown to 1,709 sworn officers and 602 civilian employees. In 2022, the Illinois State Police is comprised of 1836 sworn officers and 1084 civilian employees.
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