City of Decatur announces new police chief

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — The city of Decatur announced the next police chief Monday night.

Brad Allen will take over for Shane Brandel after he retires early May. The city announced Brandel's retirement last month.

Allen has 27 years of experience with DPD and has served as Deputy Chief of Administrative Operations.

"I am proud to promote Brad Allen to serve as the next chief of the Decatur Police Department," said city manager Tim Gleason. "Throughout his career he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to the community, making him the right person to lead the department into the future."

Allen, a graduate of MacArthur High School, first joined DPD in 1998. He'll officially start as chief on May 10.

“It is a great honor and privilege to be appointed as the next Police Chief of my hometown. I fully understand the responsibility that comes with this role, and I look forward to working in partnership with the community to build a safer and stronger Decatur,” said Allen. “The men and women of the Decatur Police Department are among the best in the profession and deserve full credit for the outstanding service we provide. I am excited to work alongside each officer and staff member as we continue to lead the way in modern policing and uphold the highest standards of excellence."

Allen told WAND, "I look forward to the challenge. I'm excited about the future of the department to continue to build off of the good things we have done over the last few years."

Allen added, "My love for the city began as a little child in and out of the fire department as my father served. So, I knew that some time in my life I would be in a position of service."