Resignations, Staff Shortage Hit Illinois PD over Safety, Other Issues

Cook County sheriff's deputies were needed to help patrol the village of Robbins after over a dozen officers didn't show up to work because of safety issues, low pay and lack of resources, the union said.

Oct. 4, 2021

An Illinois police department are facing a staff shortage after many officers didn't show up for work over the weekend.

The union for the Robbins police officers says over a dozen of its members have resigned or called off work because of issues facing the department, WLS-TV reports. According to the union, problems that officers cited included safety concerns, low pay and diminished resources.

"It has gotten to the point now that officers are fed up," said Det. Hurman Mathis, who also is the union president.

Because of the lack of officers reporting, Cook County sheriff's deputies were needed to help with weekend patrols. The issue has now reached a critical point, and village officials are trying to work with the union to get officers back at work.

"(It's) something that has to be addressed, and will be handled when we sit down with the union," Mayor Darren Bryant said.