The Elgin Police Department was named first runner-up by the International Association of Chiefs of Police for the prestigious IACP/Thomson Reuters Award for Excellence in Criminal Investigation, which recognizes quality achievement and innovation in managing and conducting criminal investigations.

The Elgin Police Department submitted its application and learned in July that it was selected as one of eight finalists from more than 120 agencies from around the world.

The submitted application highlighted the many innovative techniques, strategies 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 in a 20 percent reduction in motor-vehicle burglaries for 2013, and a 20-year low for the city of Elgin.

The Elgin Police Department received the first runner-up award at the IACP’s annual conference last week in Orlando, FL.  Selection was 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.

Elgin Police Chief Jeffrey Swoboda said the award is significant because it is competitive and brings applications from around the world.

“I am extremely proud of the dedication of all the members of EPD and how we work so closely with the community to reduce crime,” he said.

More information about the IACP and the award can be found by clicking here.

SOURCE: City of Elgin media release