Law Enforcement

The Law Enforcement Department is responsible for protecting the natural resources and physical properties contained within over 25,000 acres owned and operated by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County. The Department is also charged with providing a safe environment for the visitors who use the preserves by reducing the possibility of injury and crime. These goals are accomplished through a combination of interpretation and enforcement.

The Law Enforcement Department currently has 25 police officers, three dispatchers, one executive assistant and one part-time staff assistant, who together work to safeguard the District's 62 forest preserves. Daily activities of the Forest Preserve Police range from patrolling preserve pathways on mountain bikes to providing first aid to visitors or enforcing state and federal fishing regulations and District dog-leash ordinances.

CALEA Certification

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County's Law Enforcement Department is the first park or preserve law enforcement agency in Illinois that has met the accreditation standards for the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). Since 1979, only 507 out of 17,000 law enforcement agencies in the country have met the qualifications to receive this award.

Accreditation for CALEA is an extensive, three-year effort. During these rigorous evaluations, more than 300 standards are met by every police officer within the law enforcement department. These standards are in areas of policy and procedures, administration, operations and support services. The accreditation manager for the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County's Law Enforcement Department is Officer Kajanda Love, however this position is a temporary, three year assignment.   After being reaccredited another officer will be assigned to take over the position of Accreditation Manager and will begin the process of reaccreditation.  Accreditation is a very meticulous and methodical project; however, the benefits of being an accredited agency are significant.  The CALEA Accreditation Process is a proven management model.  Once implemented, the Chief has a blueprint that promotes the efficient use of resources and improves service delivery-regardless of the size, geographic location, or functional responsibilities of the agency. 

On September 18, 2001, the District's Law Enforcement Department received a plaque symbolizing compliance with CALEA accreditation standards.  Since then, the Law Enforcement Department has undergone two successful reaccreditations, most recently receiving an award certificate in July of 2007.

Volunteer Opportunities

The Volunteer Trail Patrol program in 2007 consisted of approximately 35 men and women who assist our department by providing safe and enjoyable trails by either walking or biking the trails. They communicate emergencies, such as missing persons or suspicious activities, as well as adverse trail conditions to our department. They also answer questions to trail users and distribute trail maps and brochures which help to inform the preserve patrons about trail etiquette and preserve regulations.  The program is overseen by the Department’s Volunteer Liaison, Officer Jandura.

In 2007 the Volunteer Trail Patrol contributed over 1500 hours of volunteer time patrolling the District’s 145 miles of trail in 20 preserves as well as donating 70 hours with other District events, including the Kids’ Bicycle Rodeo, Earth Day, Wonders of Winter and The Danada Fall Festival.

On-Going Programs

Special Olympics Torch Run
The Law Enforcement Department’s Charity of Choice is the Special Olympics Torch Run.  Our officers have been actively involved in raising awareness and funds for the Special Olympics since 1996.  In recent years, the Law Enforcement Department has increased its contributions to more than $5000.00 each year.  This significant increase has allowed more athletes to enter into the Special Olympics Training program to go onto participate in the National and International games.  We are in turn able to see the benefits of our fundraising efforts.  This program is overseen by the Department’s Torch Run Liaison, Officer Love.

Honor Guard
The Honor Guard is a five-member group consisting of four officers and one Lieutenant.  The Honor Guard participates in various dedications and special events throughout the year.

Bike Rodeo
The Annual Bike Rodeo is a joint effort between the Law Enforcement Department, Sector Personnel, Fleet Services and many Volunteer Trail Patrol members.  Participants receive instruction on bike maintenance, bike safety and trail etiquette while riding their bicycle through the course.  Officer Jandura is responsible for coordinating this event.