The Elgin Police Department has been named by the International Association of Chiefs of Police as a finalist for the prestigious IACP/Thomson Reuters Award for Excellence in Criminal Investigation. The Elgin Police Department submitted its application based on the many innovative techniques and programs used in the reduction of motor vehicle burglaries throughout the city. The success of the various strategies deployed, along with community partnerships, resulted n a 20 percent reduction in motor-vehicle burglaries for 2013 and a 20-year low for the city of Elgin.

The IACP/Thomson Reuters Award for Excellence in Criminal Investigation recognizes quality achievement and innovation in managing and conducting criminal investigations.

As one of eight finalists, the Elgin Police Department was selected based on evaluation criteria that included: innovation in the development or enhancement of investigative techniques, the significance of the contribution to the advancement of the art or science of criminal investigation, and exceptional achievement in managing or conducting a criminal investigation.

More than 100 agencies submitted applications from around the world, and the finalists for the award include: California Highway Patrol-Orange County Auto Theft Task Force, Halton Regional Police Service, Maryland Transit Administration Police, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Pasadena Independent School District Police Department, Queensland Police Service, and the Wisconsin Division of Criminal Investigations. The winner and two runner-ups will be selected at the IACP’s annual conference in October to be held in Orlando, FL.

“To be one of eight departments in the world to be recognized for our innovation is a source of great pride to our department,” Chief Jeffrey Swoboda said. “This confirms that what the community and police department are doing here in Elgin is truly special and one that others see as a model.”

SOURCE: Elgin Police Department press release