Cook County Sheriff’s Police

In 1922, a need arose. The burgeoning suburbs of Cook County needed protection. Thus, the Cook County Sheriff’s Police was born. Originally called the Cook County Highway Police, this fledgling force began with just 32 officers. They were tasked with patrolling the expanding roadways and unincorporated areas of the county. These early officers, many with military backgrounds, supplied their own motorcycles and received a meager $125 monthly salary, plus upkeep for their vehicles. The Cook County Sheriff’s Police quickly established stations across the county. The first, Station 1, operated temporarily at Waukegan and Dempster. It later moved to a permanent location on Milwaukee Avenue in 1924. Other stations were planned near 147th and Western Avenue and in Palos Park. The Cook County Sheriff’s Police faced challenges from the start. Tragedy struck early, with several officers losing their lives in motorcycle accidents in the line of duty. Despite these hardships, the force persisted, adapting to the changing needs of a rapidly growing county. Sheriff John Toman recognized the need for improved emergency medical services. In 1935, he initiated first aid training for all officers and equipped vehicles for transporting injured persons. This forward-thinking approach laid the groundwork for future advancements. By 1939, the suburban population had doubled, prompting the Circuit Court to approve an increase in the force’s size to 125 officers. This expansion reflected the Cook County Sheriff’s Police’s growing role in maintaining law and order. Over the decades, the Cook County Sheriff’s Police has remained at the forefront of innovation. They embraced new technologies, developed specialized units, and expanded their services. From pioneering the use of video recording in legal cases to creating a helicopter emergency ambulance system, they have consistently sought to improve public safety. Today, the Cook County Sheriff’s Police stands as the third-largest police department in Illinois. They continue to serve the unincorporated areas and provide vital support to suburban police departments. Their commitment to protecting and serving the community remains as strong as it was a century ago.