Deputy Chief To Replace Gillette As Police Chief In Downers Grove

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Deputy Chief Michael DeVries has been appointed to replace Shanon Gillette as the new police chief of Downers Grove. DeVries will assume the role Jan. 7, on day after Gillette heads into retirement.

DeVries started his career with the Downers Grove Police Department more than 20 years ago. During that time, he has worked as Detective Sergeant, Patrol Sergeant, Lieutenant of Investigations and Lieutenant of Operations.

Related: Chief Gillette To Retire From Downers Grove Police Department

The village's incoming police chief earned his bachelor's degree and a masters degree in management and organizational behavior from Benedictine University before attending Lewis University to earn a masters degree in public safety administration.

DeVries' education also includes graduating from the FBI National Academy and the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command.

"Mike has a great deal of experience in every facet of the police department," Village Manager Fieldman said in a statement.

Fieldman added, "He is a proven leader in managing both the technical and interpersonal aspects of modern policing and is committed to upholding the tenets of procedural justice; fairness, transparency, and impartiality expected by our community."

DeVries called it a "great honor" to be appointed as police chief. He said, "I look forward to leading the department's dedicated team of professionals to serve everyone in our community with dignity and respect."