Crime & Safety
Highland Park Police Chief Announces Retirement
Chief Paul Shafer has submitted his resignation to the City of Highland Park and will step down early next month.
HIGHLAND PARK, IL — Highland Park is looking for a new head of its police force, as current Chief Paul Shafer has announced his retirement. He submitted his resignation to City Manager Ghida Neukirch after 38 years of law enforcement service in Illinois. His final day will be Aug. 2, according to an announcement from the City of Highland Park.
Shafer will be recognized by the Highland Park City Council for his 14 years of service to the city on Monday, July 24 at 7:30 p.m., and members of the public have been invited to the event to honor the longtime lawman for his dedicated service to the community.
“This was not an easy decision as I truly enjoy serving the city,” Shafer said. “I am grateful to staff, elected officials and the many individuals I have worked with over the years, especially the men and women of the police department, past and present. Their efforts are the foundation for our success in providing exemplary police services to our residents.”
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Shafer began his career in law enforcement in 1979 with the Bellwood Police Department. In 1981, he took a position with the Naperville Illinois Police Department, where he served for 22 years and rose through the ranks to the position of Captain Deputy Chief. While in that position, he was the commander of the DuPage County Major Crimes Task Force from its inception in 1998 to his departure five years later. Some of his accomplishments in Highland Park include the police department building project and maintaining the police department’s distinguishing accreditation status, among others.
“Paul is an exceptional Police Chief. He has led our City’s Police Department for 14 years with distinct professionalism, integrity, compassion, and grace,” said City Manager Ghida Neukirch.
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Highland Park is currently interviewing external candidates to serve as Interim Police Chief, while undertaking a national executive search for Shafer’s replacement.
» via the City of Highland Park
Top photo: Highland Park Police Chief Paul Shafer | City of Highland Park
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