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Cortland officer named Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police 2026 Officer of the Year
Summary
Mayor Pietrowski and Police Commander Bruce VanWankum informed trustees that Officer Robert Harris was selected by the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police as the 2026 Officer of the Year for his investigative work in a multistate child exploitation case.
Mayor Pietrowski informed the board that the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police selected Officer Robert Harris as the 2026 Officer of the Year for his "outstanding investigative work in a complex child exploitation case that ultimately resulted in multiple arrests across several states." Commander Bruce VanWankum added that he had never personally known a recipient of the statewide award before and said he would provide more information once the award has been officially published.
The recognition was announced as part of the mayor’s report; no formal board action was required. Trustees congratulated the department in the meeting minutes and staff said they would share more details after the award is published by the association.
