Message From The Chief

As a lifelong member of the Zion community, it is with great pride that I serve as the Chief of Police for the City of Zion. I was raised in Zion and graduated from Zion Central Junior High and Zion Benton Township High School. I have dedicated the past 20+ years honing my skills, both as a police officer and as an advocate for the Zion community. In 2002, I joined the Zion Police Department as a young patrol officer and worked my way up through each division within the department. As a detective, assigned to the criminal investigations division, I collaborated with multi-jurisdictional teams involved in complex cases. In 2015, I was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and gained additional supervisory experience.  I was promoted to Lieutenant in 2019, where I was assigned to command the criminal investigations division.  In 2020, I graduated from Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command, further developing the management skills necessary to oversee departmental operations. In 2021, I was appointed Chief of Police by Mayor William McKinney. I am honored to have been entrusted with this position, working alongside the brave men and women of our police force. Since my appointment as Chief of Police, I have been selected to serve on many advisory boards both locally and statewide. In 2021, I was selected to join the Board of Directors for the Northeast Multi-Regional Training (NEMRT) unit. In 2021, I was also elected to a five-year term on the Board of Directors for the Lake County Chiefs of Police Association. In 2024, I was elected to a four-year term on the Board of Directors for the Illinois Chiefs of Police Association. Through these experiences, I have gained insight into the needs of the City of Zion. I understand the importance of upholding the values of integrity, accountability, and community partnership.  I believe through collaboration and open communication we can build a safer and stronger community. I am committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our neighborhoods, businesses and families. Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Chief of Police.   Eric Barden Chief of Police