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Evanston Police Department Recognized as 2025 Illinois CIT Department of the Year

CHICAGO — The City of Evanston is proud to announce that the Evanston Police Department (EPD) has been selected as the Illinois Law Enforcement Training & Standards Board's 2025 Illinois Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Department of the Year. This prestigious award recognizes EPD’s outstanding commitment to crisis intervention, de-escalation, and collaboration with mental health professionals in serving the Evanston community.

The award will be officially presented at the 2025 Illinois CIT Conference in East Peoria, Illinois, on June 25. The selection committee, along with CIT State Coordinator Jennifer Wooldridge, acknowledged EPD’s efforts in integrating CIT training into daily operations and fostering partnerships that prioritize mental health support for residents.

“This recognition is a testament to the tireless work and dedication of the men and women of the Evanston Police Department,” said City Manager Luke Stowe. “Through their commitment to CIT training and collaboration with the City’s Crisis Alternative Response Evanston (C.A.R.E.) program, EPD continues to set the standard for compassionate and effective crisis response.”

EPD has prioritized CIT training, ensuring that a majority of its 144 sworn officers have completed the certified 40-hour Illinois CIT Training. Officers utilize this training to de-escalate crises, reduce the need for force, and improve outcomes for individuals in distress. The department’s collaboration with the C.A.R.E. program has further enhanced its ability to address mental health emergencies with non-police interventions when appropriate.

The City of Evanston extends its gratitude to all who contributed to this achievement, including EPD officers, the C.A.R.E. team, City leadership, and community partners.

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Media Contact: Cynthia Vargas
cvargas@cityofevanston.org
Phone: 847-448-8234