James E.

Getz
Chief of Police
Decatur Police Department
707 W. Southside Drive
Decatur, Illinois 62521
217/424-2745
jgetz@decaturil.gov

Press Release
Date: 08/08/17
Re: Officer-Involved Shooting Investigation Completion

Investigations of this nature are very laborious and time consuming. I want to
acknowledge the citizens of Decatur for their patience and calmness while the
Illinois State Police and the Macon County States Attorneys conducted their
investigation and review. As the Chief of Police, I must always take the firing
of a weapon on duty and not in training very seriously. I am very thankful no
loss of life occurred. Due to the ongoing criminal case against the defendants,
the Macon County States attorney cannot divulge details of the case. The
Decatur Police Department must not interfere with the ongoing criminal case
either. As this case moves forward, the citizens can follow the case in the
media or in person at the courthouse should a trial occur. The reports will also
be available through the Freedom of Information Act once the case has been
settled. I believe the City of Decatur is a community that has shown other
communities how to respond during tough times. I believe we can continue to
be a model for other communities as we move forward. Please remain
peaceful and patient as these proceedings move forward. Be confident the
Decatur Police Department and this Chief of Police will not interfere with the
truth being shared with the community.