Today Marks Joliet Police Chief Bill Evans Final Day On Job: Decision On Permanent Awaits Awaits City Hall

JOLIET, IL — In what seems like an eternity ago, back in March of 2022, Bill Evans came to Joliet out of Chicago to become the first outside hire as chief of the Joliet Police Department since the 1990s. Former Mayor Bob O'Dekirk and former city manager Jim Capparelli were responsible for bringing Evans to Joliet. Evans had retired from the Cook County Sheriff's Office after spending several years as a supervisor, battling gangs and violent activity.

Now, after more than four years of overseeing the Joliet Police Department,Evans has called it quits. He's retiring. Thursday marked his final day on the job, according to an announcement from the Joliet Police Department shared on Facebook.

"Today marks the final day of service for Chief Bill Evans at the Joliet Police Department. Since arriving in March 2022, Chief Evans has led the department with compassion, approachability, and a genuine commitment to both the members of this agency and the residents of Joliet," the agency noted. "Throughout his tenure, Chief Evans prioritized advancing the department through technology, expanding specialized units, addressing violent crime, and listening to the concerns of community members.

"He is known as a friendly and passionate leader who truly cared about making the Joliet Police Department better for both officers and the community we serve. Chief Evans expertly guided our department through both challenging and successful moments, always leading with professionalism, steadiness, and care for others. On behalf of the men and women of the Joliet Police Department, we thank Chief Evans for his leadership, dedication, and service to our city. His impact on this department will not be forgotten."

Rob Brown, who previously served as interim chief before Evans was hired, is now back at the helm as Joliet's interim chief again. A number of well-connected sources have informed Joliet Patch that the next permanent chief of police will come down to either Brown or fellow deputy chief Sherrie Blackburn. Blackburn, as Joliet Patch previously reported, was a big supporter and campaign contributor to Terry D'Arcy's successful candidacy when he ran against two-term incumbent Bob O'Dekirk, soundly defeating him, in the April 2023 municipal election.

The Joliet Police Department's Supervisors Association played a leading role in helping D'Arcy capture the mayor's office.