Chief Craig Bangert started his law enforcement career as police officer at the Sherman Police Department in 1997. He had worked as a police officer at a neighboring police department in the previous 9 years. He also worked as EMT/Paramedic in Springfield during this time. He served as volunteer member of the Sangamon County Rescue Squad for many years. In his 20 years of service with the Village of Sherman he has watched the village grow, doubling in population.

Appointed by Mayor Trevor Clatfelter to lead the police department in February of 2016, Chief Bangert had previously served as police officer and sergeant. His duties have included: patrol supervisor, criminal investigations, crime scene investigator, intelligence liaison officer, property & evidence custodian, traffic safety grant administration, field training program supervisor, policy and procedure development, and police firearms instructor. He also served as the department’s Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) instructor for 5^th grade students. He led the transition to the alternative Responsibility Increases Student Excellence (RISE) program.

In a short time, Chief Bangert has demonstrated strong leadership skills: by seeking manpower to adequately staff a 24/7 schedule and special details, by establishing a new policy and procedures manual for the department, by participating in collective bargaining negotiations to establish a contract for full time staff represented by the Fraternal Order of Police, and, by maintaining and enforcing professional conduct and training requirements.

Chief Bangert represents the police department at monthly chief’s meetings hosted by the Sheriff of Sangamon County, monthly meetings of the Central Illinois Association of Law Enforcement Executives & Sangamon County Law Enforcement Executives Association, and as a member of the Illinois Association of Chief’s of Police.

He takes great pride in our police department and the officers that comprise it. Chief Bangert feels strongly about officer and citizen recognition when matters of commendation are recommended. It has been his honor as Chief of Police to participate in presenting award commendations for lifesaving and other meritorious service.