A Day in the Life of a Manhattan Police Officer

by Officer Joe Williams

As you’re driving home, you’re listening to your favorite song from a new album that just dropped. You’re excited to order some take-out and relax for the night. But as you turn toward your house, you see red and blue flashing lights. You start to wonder if you were speeding or if there’s an issue with your registration. You try to remember if your partner renewed it or not.

The Manhattan Police Department is responsible for conducting multiple traffic stops on a daily basis to ensure that motorists comply with the Illinois Vehicle Code and to prevent any safety violations. Typically, officers can conduct between 10-50 traffic stops in a 24-hour period, depending on the volume of traffic complaints received and the specific areas that require attention. Truck enforcement efforts have also increased, with certified officers educating incoming truck drivers.

In addition to traffic enforcement, officers of the Manhattan Police Department are known to conduct foot patrols within businesses, subdivisions, and parks in Manhattan. They also support local businesses by patronizing their restaurants and buying lunch or dinner at the local grocery store. Officers are also seen engaging with the community in various ways, such as supporting locally run lemonade stands or attending garage sales. These efforts help to strengthen the relationship between the police department and the community it serves and foster a growing culture of community policing.

The Manhattan Police Department continues to show growth as the 10 full-time sworn officers (and growing) participate in training. As laws change, we adapt to best serve the community and visitors of Manhattan. We appreciate the effort made by the community to contact us as suspicious/criminal activity takes place. This combined effort helps ensure that Manhattan remains safe and well-maintained. As we move through 2024, the Manhattan Police Department always reminds everyone to keep it smooth.