In a ceremony held yesterday, the Illinois State Police (ISP) celebrated the career of Colonel Margaret McGreal and marked the beginning of a new era under the leadership of the newly appointed Division of Patrol (DOP) Deputy Director, Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Owen. McGreal served for over 26 years.
During her tenure, McGreal broke multiple barriers in the ISP, echoing the attributes of tenacity, dedication, and leadership. As she took on various roles and responsibilities over the years, McGreal's influence in the ISP steadily grew, culminating in her being appointed as the first female Colonel of the Division of Patrol in May of 2020. With a keen eye on mentorship, McGreal invested her time and shared her experience with colleagues, helping to prepare future ISP leaders.
Her storied career with the ISP started as a cadet in 1997 and saw subsequent promotions through the ranks of Sergeant, Master Sergeant, Operations Lieutenant, Captain, Lieutenant Colonel, and ultimately, Colonel. Her multifaceted experience across the organization, both in District Chicago and at the division level, helped contribute not only to ISP's success but also to her own personal growth.
The ISP's change of command ceremony underscores the notion of progress, imbued in the organization, with their leaders setting an example for the rest of the force. Recognizing and celebrating McGreal's achievements serves both as a tribute to her immense contribution and, importantly, as an inspiration to the next generation of police personnel, regardless of their gender.
With McGreal's retirement, the baton is now being passed to Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Owen, who will take on the duties of DOP Deputy Director. Owen comes with significant law enforcement experience, having begun his career with the ISP in 2002 as a member of Cadet Class 106. Since then, Owen has served in multiple positions, including patrol officer, K9 officer, task force officer, detail leader Master Sergeant for the Executive Protection Unit, Deputy Chief of Staff, Chief of Staff, and Commander for various assignments.
Owen's pathway in ISP reflects a dedication to the cause and displays a level of expertise that makes him more than qualified for his new role as DOP Deputy Director. As he moves forward in his leadership role, there are high expectations for Owens' tenure and his contributions to the continued development of the ISP.
Since its inception in 1922, the Illinois State Police has evolved considerably from its initial role of enforcing motor vehicle laws via motorcycle patrols. It is now considered one of the most modern and efficient police organizations in the country, comprised of sworn personnel and civilians totaling more than 3,000 individuals. The ISP is valued not only for its law enforcement capabilities but also for the array of specialty services it offers to other law enforcement agencies through innovation and collaboration.
With both a sense of gratitude for the past and optimism for the future, the ISP stands confident in its commitment to excellence under the guidance of its new DOP Deputy Director, Colonel Christopher Owen.
