The Moline City Council recognized Police Chief Darren Gault on Dec. 16 after he received the Illinois Security Professionals Association Law Enforcement Official of the Year award.

City and council presenters highlighted Gault’s 28‑plus years in law enforcement, ILEAP accreditation for the Moline Police Department, the department’s completion of the IACP Trust Building Campaign pledge, the launch of a drone first‑responder program, and a recent investigative success in a 29‑year cold case that led to an arrest.

Chief Gault thanked the council and staff and credited department members for achievements, noting the city’s financial support made some initiatives possible. The mayor read a proclamation designating Jan. 9, 2026, as National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day and cited national and local contributions of police officers.

The recognition and proclamation were welcomed by council members; no formal council action was required beyond the presentation and proclamation reading.

Next steps: proclamation observed on Jan. 9, 2026; continued department focus on community engagement and public safety initiatives.