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Robbins emphasizes public safety: new cameras, planned speed bump and staffing challenges highlighted
Summary
At the Dec. 14 meeting Chief Sheppard and the mayor outlined steps to improve public safety, including purchase of 360‑degree cameras, license‑plate reader use, a planned speed bump on Lydia by summer 2022 and hiring two officers; trustees said pay and academy timing complicate staffing.
Village leaders highlighted public‑safety measures at the Dec. 14 Robbins board meeting, describing technology investments, staffing constraints and the village’s outreach to partner agencies for backup coverage.
Chief Sheppard told the board that changes in state bail policy have contributed to offenders returning to the community quickly and that the department is using new tools — eight 360‑degree cameras and Flock license‑plate readers — to investigate recent shootings and recover vehicles. He said a new juvenile detective has been hired and discussed difficulties retaining trained officers because current pay and benefits are not competitive. The chief said academy enrollment timing means several new recruits may not complete training until 2023.
Mayor Darren E. Bryant said the village plans to install new cameras and a speed bump on Lydia by summer 2022 and urged residents to call 911 to report crimes so the department can document incidents. Trustees and staff said the Cook County Sheriff’s office will provide emergency patrol assistance if Robbins is short‑staffed.
Council later approved the hiring of two officers, Romel Jamison and Kendall Walker, by unanimous vote. Trustees said they are also seeking grants and other funding to support police staffing and equipment.
