By Jake Fogal

BLOOMINGTON -Following the impending retirement of Police Chief Rick Bleichner, Town of Normal City Manager Pamela Reece announced Steve Petrilli as the next Chief of Police for the Normal Police Department.

Petrilli becomes the 17th Chief of Police for NPD in it’s history.

“I have served the Normal Police Department and the citizens of Normal for more than 23 years. I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to lead this department as the next chief of police. I take immense pride in the police department officers and staff and how they serve and protect our residents daily,” said Petrilli.

“I intend to continue a community- and neighborhood-focused approach. I appreciate the trust City Manager Reece has placed in me to lead this exceptional department.”

Petrilli joined the Normal Police Department in 1999, after earning his Bachelor of Science Degree from Illinois State University in 1998.

During his tenure, he’s worked as a patrol officer, recruiter, field training officer, Emergency Response Unit (ERU) team member and as a K-9 handler. In 2007, he was promoted to sergeant where he served as a supervisor in the Patrol Division, ERU, Pro-Active Crimes Unit and the Vice Unit. In 2012, Petrilli was promoted to lieutenant and served as a patrol commander until being named assistant police chief in 2015. As an assistant chief, Petrilli has worked in all facets of Operations and Support Services.

“Steve has been with the NPD since 1999 and is a proven leader with experience in many different roles. He has helped shape the police department’s strong culture of professionalism, integrity and service. The NPD and the Town of Normal will benefit from Steve’s vision, experience and passion to provide exceptional service to our community,” said Town of Normal City Manager Pamela Reece. 

Chief Bleichner’s has served in his role since 2011, and his official last day in office is April 22.

Jake Fogal can be reached at [email protected].