Much Turnover In Western Springs Police Department

WESTERN SPRINGS, IL – The Western Springs Police Department has seen its share of turnover in the last few years.

The department's recently released annual report revealed the magnitude of the change.

According to the report, of the department's 19 sworn officers in 2023, six started that year, three in 2022 and two in 2021.

In all, 11 of the officers have started since 2021. Even Police Chief Sean Gilhooley is relatively new, having begun in March 2023.

In response to Patch's inquiry, Gilhooley said one officer returned to the Chicago Police Department, while a second officer moved to another larger department. This year, a sergeant retired after nearly a quarter century.

On Tuesday, the department is set to hire a new officer with police experience, which brings the staff to 20, leaving just one vacancy, Gilhooley said.

"While turnover is a widely-faced concern in policing – many surrounding communities are recruiting just as we are – our rate is consistent with broader trends, and I believe we are performing well in comparison," the chief said in an email.