Jerseyville Police Chief Brad Blackorby has announced his retirement after 21 years leading the department and 30 years in law enforcement. Blackorby, 53, will transition to a new role as the executive director of the Unified Child Advocacy Network (UCAN), a nonprofit dedicated to preventing child abuse.
Key Takeaways
- Jerseyville Police Chief Brad Blackorby is retiring after 21 years.
- He will become the executive director of the Unified Child Advocacy Network (UCAN).
- UCAN serves five counties and focuses on preventing child abuse.
- Sgt. Danny Green is set to be sworn in as the new chief.
A New Chapter for Chief Blackorby
After a distinguished 30-year career in law enforcement, including over two decades as Jerseyville’s police chief, Brad Blackorby is stepping down. His final day with the Jerseyville Police Department will be September 30th. Blackorby expressed his love for Jerseyville, where he has lived and raised his family, but felt it was time for a new challenge.
Leading the Fight Against Child Abuse
Blackorby’s next endeavor will be leading UCAN, an organization that provides crucial services such as training, prevention, and treatment to combat child abuse. UCAN operates across Jersey, Greene, Calhoun, Macoupin, and Montgomery counties. Blackorby noted that the Jerseyville Police Department has collaborated with UCAN for approximately 20 years, highlighting the organization’s work in conducting forensic interviews for sexually or physically abused children, sharing vital information with law enforcement, courts, and the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).
A Legacy in Jerseyville
Blackorby’s career in Jerseyville began in 1995, and he was promoted to police chief in 2004, a position he considered the pinnacle of his aspirations. His family has a strong tradition in law enforcement, with his cousin Rick Blackorby having served as a lieutenant and his grandfather, Herman Blackorby, having been police chief for 23 years before serving as mayor. Jerseyville Mayor Kevin Stork, who has known Blackorby since high school, praised his ability to connect with diverse groups, calling him "someone who was friends with everybody" and attributing his effectiveness as chief to this quality.
Reflections on Policing
Reflecting on his tenure, Blackorby acknowledged the significant changes in law enforcement over the years, emphasizing his consistent goal of ensuring public safety. He finds deep satisfaction in helping individuals and solving problems. Blackorby also shared his advice for aspiring law enforcement officers: "Treat people right, treat people how you want to be treated, and be nice." He believes that treating everyone with respect is key to a successful career in the field.
Transition and Future Leadership
Following Blackorby’s retirement, Sgt. Danny Green is slated to be sworn in as the new Jerseyville Police Chief at the Jerseyville City Council meeting on September 30th.
Sources
- Jerseyville police chief retires, will lead UCAN nonprofit, Alton Telegraph.
