Palos Park Police Officers Recognized As 'Top Cops' On DUI Survey

PALOS PARK, IL -- Two Palos Park police officers have received awards from the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists. Commander John Sawyer and Officer Ross Chibe were honored as “Top Cops” on AAIM’s recently released DUI arrest survey for 2016. Each year, AAIM conducts a DUI survey of more than 700 police departments throughout the state of Illinois and asks for each agency’s top DUI officers.

“All of our officers strive each day to ensure Palos Park not only maintain its reputation as one of the safest places in Illinois, we take great pride in knowing that we have officers working in Palos Park who share this same passion.” Police Commissioner Dan Polk said in a news release.

>>> Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists Release 2016 DUI Arrest Results

AAIM, which receives funding from the Illinois Department of Transportation, pledges to fight against
the extremely preventable crime of driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. With this award, AAIM is continuing to promote its campaign against impaired drivers while also recognizing these officers for their exceptional public service.

Palos Park ranked 110th out of nearly 700 participating municipalities. Palos Park’s 21 sworn officers notched 17 DUI arrests in 2016, reflecting an average of 0.81 per officer. AAIM’s “Top Cops” have become experts in keeping roads safe and spotting the telltale signs of drivers who’ve have had a few too many alcoholic beverages before getting behind the wheel.

“It’s something that can be prevented, and we challenge drivers to take some responsibility, have a designated driver and make it home safe,” Polk said. “The consequences of drinking and driving don’t stop with an arrest or an accident, but are a ripple effect that continues to affect countless numbers of lives. It’s just not worth it.”