Joliet Police Sergeant Bill Otis Placed On Administrative Leave: Chief Evans

JOLIET, IL — The Joliet Police Department issued a statement on Wednesday night confirming that Sergeant William Otis was placed on administrative leave this week. Otis worked as a patrol sergeant for his current assignment. He was promoted to the rank of sergeant in April 2023.

One source told Joliet Patch the allegations arose from an off-duty incident involving a woman.

Ten years ago, Otis was honored by the Joliet Exchange Club as the Joliet Police Department's Officer of the Year for 2016. Chief Brian Benton presented him with the department's highest honor during the organization's annual banquet ceremony.

On Wednesday night, the department's current chief of police issued the following statement:

"On January 10, 2026, the Joliet Police Department was made aware of allegations involving Sgt. Otis. The matter is being investigated by an independent agency, the Will Grundy Major Crimes Task Force. This is an open and ongoing investigation. The Joliet Police Department is cooperating fully with the Task Force and, due to the active nature of the investigation, cannot release additional information.

“It is the Joliet Police Department’s priority that our members are held accountable for their actions, as accountability reinforces both the legitimacy of our agency and the safety of our community. We will continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and remain focused on our mission to protect and serve the citizens of Joliet," Chief Bill Evans said in his press statement.