Chief King Makes History as First Female ILACP President

Members of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police (ILACP) witnessed another milestone on April 2, as they welcomed the 75th president of the association, as well as the first female in its more than 80-year history. President Laura King was sworn in by Judge Robert Zalud during the ILACP Awards Banquet in Lombard last month. She will serve one year as president after having served three years as vice president.

“As I step into the role as the 75th president of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, the magnitude of this opportunity does not escape me,” said President King during her speech at the awards banquet. “I am humbled and will be forever grateful for the privilege to lead such an amazing organization during such important times.”

Looking ahead, President King has set several goals for herself and the organization over the next year including: Leading the way in creating a climate of improved officer safety and wellness; trust building initiatives with communities of color; and recruitment and retention initiatives.

“I stand before you as the first female president of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police,” said President King. “And it is my final goal that at the end of my term, people will no longer be talking about the fact I was the first girl president, and instead remember me as a good president. For I plan to be a darn good president, and it is my intention for people to think back on my term and remember my competency, our accomplishments, and the leadership I provide for this great organization over my gender.”

ILACP President King succeeds Chief Lou Jogmen of Highland Park, who moves to his new position as Immediate Past President. Several other ILACP members were sworn in to the 2023 Board of Officers on April 21: First Vice President Chief Marc Maton; Second Vice President Chief Joe Leonas; Third Vice President Chief Dan Ryan; Vice President at Large, Region 1 Chief Kirk Brueggeman; Vice President at Large, Region 2 Chief Darren Gault; and Vice President at Large, Region 3 Chief Pat Kreis. Steve Casstevens will remain as ILACP Parliamentarian.