Will County voters are set to choose a new sheriff to replace retiring Sheriff Mike Kelley, who has served three terms since 2014. Republican James “Jim” Reilly and Democrat Patrick Jones, both long-serving members of the sheriff’s office, are contending for the four-year term.
Candidate Profiles
James “Jim” Reilly
Reilly, a 60-year-old sheriff’s deputy from Wilmington, has 24 years of law enforcement experience. His roles include being a K-9 and juvenile officer, and participating in an undercover organized crime unit that collaborated with federal entities to tackle high-level criminal activities. Reilly holds a doctorate in criminal justice with a minor in global leadership and has studied international law enforcement. His research emphasizes enhancing community-police relationships. “That dissertation is being used throughout the country,” Reilly stated.
Patrick Jones
Jones, 50, is a sergeant in the patrol division and has been with the sheriff’s office for 25 years. His experience spans corrections, crime scene investigations, SWAT operations, and leading the crisis negotiation team. Jones has managed over 40 significant investigations, including a case where his testimony helped convict Joseph Czuba for a racially motivated murder. He prioritizes training deputies and aims to bolster mental health resources and community engagement. “I understand we get our trust from the people,” Jones said, emphasizing transparency.
Key Issues
Community Engagement
Jones aims to increase officer visibility and facilitate community interactions to enhance problem-solving efforts. He plans to make incident videos involving police force public to maintain transparency and holds the community’s trust as paramount.
Both candidates stress the importance of mental health resources. Jones advocates for expanded training programs within jails to reduce recidivism by offering skill development in trades like welding. Such efforts aim to prevent facilitating repeat offenders.
Reilly’s focus is on crime reduction and public safety through intelligence-based policing. He supports developing relationships between the sheriff’s office and federal agencies. He is critical of the SAFE-T Act, considering it detrimental and advocating reform with political leaders.
Technology in Law Enforcement
License Plate Readers
Reilly supports license plate readers as a vital tool for law enforcement while acknowledging privacy concerns. He suggests data from these cameras be stored temporarily and used responsibly. “I think that’s where Will County has been lacking,” Reilly said, observing the need for better coordination with federal agencies.
Jones also endorses these cameras, highlighting their success in incidents like catching a homicide suspect swiftly. He proposes weekly audits to monitor potential misuse, thereby maintaining public trust. “This is an amazing technology but it needs serious guidelines in place,” Jones emphasized.
Crimes Targeting Vulnerable Populations
Both candidates focus on technology’s role in evolving criminal tactics. Jones wants to address crimes against the elderly and online threats to children by raising awareness and forming protective task forces.
Reilly highlights the need for community programs to safeguard senior citizens from financial scams, advocating partnerships with financial institutions. He views artificial intelligence as both a tool and a challenge for future law enforcement efforts.