SPRINGFIELD, IL – On behalf of Illinois State Police (ISP) Director Hiram Grau, ISP First Deputy Director Greg Muller paid tribute to recipients of over 225 awards during a ceremony hosted by the Illinois Metropolitan Enforcement Group (MEG) Directors’ and Task Force Commanders’ Association.     

Officials, family members, law enforcement executives, and other attendees applauded the awardees for their outstanding performance and efforts in combatting the violence associated with illicit drugs.

The State of Illinois currently has 22 multi-jurisdictional MEG and Task Force units that have been indemnified by the Illinois State Police (ISP).  These MEGs and Task Forces are a collaboration of 230 federal, ISP, county and local law enforcement officers who cooperatively address illegal drug, gun and criminal street gang activities on a daily basis.

“Narcotics officers are the men and women on the frontlines of the war against drugs who proudly represent these multi-jurisdictional task forces,” said Illinois State Police (ISP) Director Hiram Grau.  “They are the unseen heroes that go unheard of and relentlessly approach danger and uncertainty without hesitation,” added Grau. 

In 2011, Illinois MEGs and Task Forces were responsible for the initiation of 4,726 criminal investigations and the arrests of 4,282 subjects, 886 of whom who qualified for mandatory prison sentences.  In addition, 965 search warrants were served and 1,020 guns used in criminal activity were seized. 

“It is these undisputable results and the unwavering bravery that underscores the value of these task forces and their outstanding performance,” said Grau.  “I am honored to be associated with these law enforcement professionals,” he added.

The Illinois State Police Pipes and Drums led the processional, followed by ISP Chaplain, Reverend Dr. Arthur C. Bergren, who performed the invocation.