Statement Regarding Recent State Legislation

Citizens of Highland:

We have received a lot of calls and questions about the criminal justice reform legislation passed by the IL legislature yesterday. I want to thank all the citizens who have reached out to our department and officers and expressed their support for us over the last few days. The sentiments have truly been humbling for our staff, and we cannot thank you enough.

We are still waiting for a complete review of the final law so that we can determine the potential impact to our operations and budgets. It is important to note that this was a “comprehensive” bill that impacted all facets of law enforcement from the street cop, to the judge to the jailer, so it may take some time to get all of our questions answered and to determine the full impact. Please be patient as we have many of the same questions a lot of you have.

So what do we know?

The City of Highland has always been very supportive of our public safety services and for that we are extremely fortunate. As a result of that support, we have a highly trained and adaptable staff. As more information about this law becomes available and new processes are developed, the Highland Police Department will adapt and will continue to provide the professional police services our citizens expect. We will focus on the things we can control and modify our operations where needed to meet the changed legislation. Please know that we will put our fullest efforts into training our staff to continue the level of service incumbent upon us to provide while staying within the laws of the State.

Will there be challenges? Absolutely. But that will not stop us. With the support of our community, we will adapt, overcome and drive on.

Thank you again on behalf of all the members of the Highland Police Department. Your support has been overwhelming and greatly appreciated.

Christopher Conrad