City of Highland Park Police Chief Paul Shafer announced his retirement effective August 2, 2017. He provided his resignation to City Manager Ghida Neukirch. Shafer has provided 38 years of law enforcement service in Illinois.
On Monday, July 24, 2017 at 7:30 PM, Police Chief Paul Shafer will be recognized by the Highland Park City Council for 14 years of service to the City. The public is invited to attend as Chief Shafer is honored for his dedicated service to the community.
“This was not an easy decision as I truly enjoy serving the city,” said Police Chief Paul Shafer. “I am grateful to staff, elected officials and the many individuals I have worked with over the years, especially the men and women of the Police Department, past and present. Their efforts are the foundation for our success in providing exemplary police services to our residents.”
Chief Shafer began his career in law enforcement in 1979 with the Bellwood Illinois Police Department. In 1981, he took a position with the Naperville Illinois Police Department, where he served for 22 years and rose through the ranks to the position of Captain Deputy Chief. While in that position, he was the Commander of the DuPage County Major Crimes Task Force from its inception in 1998 to his departure five years later. Some of his accomplishments in Highland Park include the Police Department building project and maintaining the Police Department’s distinguishing Accreditation status, among others.
“Paul is an exceptional Police Chief. He has led our City’s Police Department for 14 years with distinct professionalism, integrity, compassion, and grace,” said City Manager Ghida Neukirch.
The City is currently interviewing external candidates to serve as Interim Police Chief, while undertaking a national executive search for Chief Shafer’s replacement.
For more information, please call the City Manager’s Office at 847.926.1000.