About the Department
About the Zion Police Department
The Zion Police Department is comprised of 52 sworn officers, 4 full-time and several part-time civilian employees, under the direction of Chief Eric Barden and Deputy Chief Sweeting.
The department is divided into two primary divisions: Operations and Investigations.
Operations Division
- Patrol – Patrol Officers respond to all emergency and non-emergency service calls. Divided into 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shifts, they are supervised by seven Patrol Sergeants. These officers are the most visible members of the department.
- Community Services – Community Service Officers (CSOs), including one full-time and several part-time, handle traffic direction, motorist assistance, parking enforcement, and animal complaints.
The Operations Division is led by Patrol Commander, Lt. Derek Zaloudek
Phone: 847-746-4105
Email: Derekz@zion.il.us
Investigations Division
- Investigations – Detectives conduct investigations on financial crimes, drug-related offenses, and violent crimes. The Criminal Investigations Unit includes five detectives. The Drug/Gang Unit has two detectives and is supervised by one Investigative Sergeant.
- Records – Civilian staff manage all report processing and citations and handle walk-in service. The department has three FOIA Officers. For records or FOIA requests, call 847-379-8307 or 847-379-8308.
The Investigations Division is led by Investigations Commander, Lt. Paul Kehrli
Phone: 847-746-4106
Email: paulk@zion.il.us
Police Canine Unit
Established in 2010, the Police Canine Unit is funded by a private foundation. Officer Rob Ogden and his K-9 partner, Taz, are part of the Patrol Division. To schedule a canine demonstration, contact Lt. Derek Zaloudek.
Chief Eric Barden
Zion Police Department
