Sheriff thankful for smooth jail switch

I would like to take this time to give thanks to all those who were involved in the task of transporting the inmates from the old Kane County jail to the new Adult Justice Center.

This was an undertaking of proportions we had never experienced, but all involved met the challenge. Confidentiality was of the utmost importance, and all involved honored the secrecy of the event. Much advanced planning was required and the Incident Command Structure was utilized, giving specific roles and obligations to all involved. There was also much alternative planning for potential hazards that may arise. This was the best example of teamwork I have ever witnessed in my career.

My sincerest thanks go to McHenry County Sheriff Keith Nygren for providing his jail bus and his Correctional Emergency Response Team, which greatly aided us. Next, to Kendall County Sheriff Dick Randall for the corrections officers he sent to provide security with our van transports.

Thanks also to St. Charles Fire Chief Patrick Mullen and Geneva Fire Chief Steve Olson for being part of Incident Command.

We are also grateful for the assistance of St. Charles Police Chief Jim Lamkin who provided both SWAT officers and emergency vehicles from his agency, and Geneva Police Chief Steve Mexin for the assistance of his officers. A special thank you to St. Charles School District Director of Transportation Blanca Souders, who provided us with buses to transport out lower risk inmates.

We also appreciate the Beacon News, Daily Herald and Kane County Chronicle reporters and photographers who were embedded with us and also honored our confidence, further expanding our mutual trust.

To Kane County Emergency Management Director Don Bryant, for not only providing the Mobile Command Center but for his many volunteers who assisted in site and route security. Most noteworthy is the fact that the Emergency Management volunteers gave of themselves without monetary compensation, and that deserves special recognition.

Last but certainly not least, the Corrections and Patrol Command Staff, Public Safety and Correctional deputies, and the SWAT and Correctional Response Team members who worked together in incident planning to make this operation successful.

This event was historic, and one that brought a great sense of accomplishment to all involved. Our plan was to accomplish our mission in an expedient manner and not endanger the public. That mission was accomplished.

I am truly grateful to our employees for the dedication they have shown before, during and after the move, and this was a day that I will always remember with great pride.

Patrick B. Perez

Kane County Sheriff