Lake County is about to witness the sunset of a long and storied career in law enforcement as Road Patrol Captain Patrick Paterson makes his move toward retirement, set for May 30. The announcement came via a post from Lake County Sheriff Frank Leonbruno, shared on the office's official Facebook page earlier this week. Paterson began his tenure with the sheriff's office in 1997 and quickly advanced through the ranks, moving from a part-time role in Court Services to a full-time Deputy Sheriff position within a month, demonstrating the high regard in which his capabilities were held from the outset.
According to social media shares, Paterson has worn many hats, including SWAT Team member, Detective, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and finally Captain, in his nearly three-decade run with the Sheriff's Office. Each position has seen him wield considerable influence over the shape and direction of the force. Notably, he stepped into the role of a shift commander as a Deputy Lieutenant, also leading an overhaul of the Court Services division's workforce, his impact felt in each position he undertook, all this before taking the reins as Road Patrol Commander in October 2022, a pivotal position overseeing operations, training, and the development of policies and procedures including the recent adoption of Lexipol, an industry-standard for law enforcement policy management.
Sheriff Leonbruno's statement didn't skimp on the platitudes, characterizing Paterson as "an exemplary member" of the team who played a significant role in the department's progression and commitment to professional service. "Capt. Paterson has been an exemplary member of our Sheriff’s Office and a large part of our development and professional service," Leonbruno noted in the post, underpinning the high regard Paterson's colleagues have for his years of dedication and hard work.
