Illinois State Police Command Leaders Express Thanks to Troops for Efforts During NATO Summit

CHICAGO -- Illinois State Police (ISP) officials announced the success of its mission to support City of Chicago law enforcement during the NATO Summit, and expressed thanks to the troops on the ground.

Hundreds of officers from the ISP’s Special Operations Command Units were deployed for the two day Summit. Officers were based out of the University of Illinois East Campus and used the offices of the Illinois Medical District Commission as their primary command post during the detail.

ISP Director Hiram Grau also praised the leadership of Chicago Police Department (CPD) Superintendent Garry McCarthy.

“The men and women of the CPD and the ISP did an outstanding job in keeping the city safe,” said ISP Director Hiram Grau. “Being out there on the frontlines was not an easy task, and I applaud them for their endurance and hard work. Our officers made all of us proud and I was proud to be among them,” he added.

ISP Division of Operations Colonel Mark Piccoli coordinated the agency’s Operational Plan and underscored the outstanding performance of the men and women of the Illinois State Police. “This agency stepped up to the plate and the command units who worked tirelessly behind the scenes on communications, logistics, and execution, should be commended for their organizational planning,” said Colonel Piccoli.

Law enforcement officials maintained a law enforcement presence throughout the state during the NATO detail. ISP districts statewide responded to more than139 crashes, 74 motorist assists, 53 traffic offenses, and 65 criminal offenses during the NATO Summits, from May 18-21.