Police Chief Shanon Gillette Set To Retire

Village Manager David Fieldman announced today that Police Chief Shanon Gillette will be retiring after more than 29 years of law enforcement service with the Village. His last day with Downers Grove will be January 6, 2023.

"Shanon is a uniquely qualified, exemplary leader, " Village Manager Fieldman said. "Under his leadership the Downers Grove police department has remained committed to protecting lives, property and the right to free speech. Chief Gillette focused on providing advanced training in areas of de-escalation, cultural competency, and implicit bias. Chief Gillette and the entire department embody the tenets of procedural justice; fairness, transparency, and impartiality. I am grateful for the significant contributions Shanon has made to our community."

"Our Village has benefited greatly from Chief Gillette's commitment to safeguarding the community. His work has been marked by putting people first - treating all who live, work and visit our community with dignity and respect at all times. I consider it a privilege to have worked with Shanon and we wish him the best in his future endeavors." said Mayor Barnett.

"It has been an honor to be a part of this exceptional organization, and to work alongside the members of the Downers Grove Police Department. I look forward to seeing all the Department will achieve in the years ahead." Chief Gillette said. 

Chief Gillette has held a variety of positions, assuming increased responsibilities and progressive management experience with every facet of the police department. Throughout his career he has served as a Community-Oriented Policing Officer, Field Training Officer, Detective, Patrol Sergeant, Administrative Sergeant, Lieutenant of Operations, Lieutenant of Investigations, Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator, and Deputy Chief of Administration. 

In 2016, Chief Gillette graduated from the FBI National Academy at Quantico, VA, where he received advanced leadership training for law enforcement executives. As a graduate of Northwestern University's School of Police Staff and Command, he was honored with the Center for Public Safety's Franklin M. Kreml Leadership award. Chief Gillette currently serves as Vice President At-Large for the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police. 

An announcement regarding the next Chief of Police will be made in the coming weeks.