DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — The City of Decatur has announced their next Chief of Police.

Brad Allen has been with the Decatur Police Department for 27 years, and previously served as the Deputy Chief of Administrative Operations. He’s taking over for Shane Brandel, who is retiring after four years as the police chief.

“I am proud to promote Brad Allen to serve as the next chief of the Decatur Police Department,” Decatur City Manager Tim Gleason said. “Throughout his career he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to the community, making him the right person to lead the department into the future.”

Allen grew up in Decatur and graduated from MacArthur High School. He first started at the police department in 1998, was promoted to Detective in 2005, Sergeant in 2013, then to Lieutenant in 2016. He became the Deputy Chief of Administrative Operations in 2021. On May 10, Allen will officially start his new role as Chief of Police.

“It is a great honor and privilege to be appointed as the next Police Chief of my hometown. I fully understand the responsibility that comes with this role, and I look forward to working in partnership with the community to build a safer and stronger Decatur,” Allen said. “The men and women of the Decatur Police Department are among the best in the profession and deserve full credit for the outstanding service we provide. I am excited to work alongside each officer and staff member as we continue to lead the way in modern policing and uphold the highest standards of excellence.”