NW Illinois News

In an April 1 Facebook post, state Rep. John Cabello (R-Machesney Park) commemorated the Illinois State Police (ISP) on its 101st anniversary.

"Thank you to the Illinois State Police for 101 years of 'Integrity, Service, Pride' – We are proud to honor our Illinois State Troopers today and every day for the work they do protecting our home," Cabello said in the post. "Happy Illinois State Trooper Day!"

Founded in 1922, the ISP was originally named the Illinois Highway Maintenance Police, information on its official website said. Officers wore World War I surplus uniforms, caps, belts and pilot helmets; and they also drove war surplus motorcycles. While patrolling at night, they used acetylene headlights to see.

In 1954, the department was renamed the Illinois State Highway Police Department of Public Safety. Officer uniforms were also changed, incorporating Stetson hats with Montana peaks. In 1957, a new law allowed for the department to retain 1,100 full-time officers and 100 additional officers contracted to the Illinois Toll Highway Authority. The name Illinois State Police was not given to the department until 1988.

"The Illinois State Police will promote public safety with integrity, service, and pride to improve the quality of life for our citizens," the organization's mission statement said. "We strive for excellence in all we do - seeking to be one of the premier policing agencies in the country."

Illinois Lt. Gov. Julia Stratton also acknowledged the ISP's anniversary.

"April 1 is Illinois State Trooper Day, a day to honor the dedicated men and women of the @ILStatePolice," she said in an April 1 tweet. "Thank you for your steadfast service and sacrifice."

Cabello was elected to represent Illinois' 90th District in the state House of Representatives in November, a Ballotpedia report said. He had previously represented the state's 68th District from 2012 until 2020 when he was defeated by Democrat Dave Vella.