MT. VERNON, IL (WSIL) -- After serving his community for nearly three decades Mt. Vernon Police Chief Trent Page will have his final sign-off later this month.
"Throughout my career, I've just absolutely enjoyed everything I've done," said Page.
Trent Page's last day will be May 27.
Page announced he would retire聽after spending nearly 27 years on the Mt. Vernon Police force. He was appointed chief of police in August 2018. Before coming to the Mt. Vernon police department, Page was a Jefferson County Sheriff's Office member.
"During my almost six years as police chief, our department has done a stellar job," said Page. "The officers do a great job. And for all of the issues that law enforcement has to deal with nowadays, I've had very few negative issues and we have great public support here and it makes this job so much easier."
Mt. Vernon Mayor John Lewis says Page exemplifies what it means to wear a police uniform.
"Trent has been such an asset," said Lewis. "He's been a great leader for the department. He's on the front lines with his guys."
Robert Brands is the assistant police chief and will be the interim Chief until the Police and Fire Commission names a new one. Brands says Trent has been a mentor to him-- and much of what he knows about being a good cop comes from their time together.
"He's been great to work for," said Brands. "He's treated it like a team environment and included me in a lot of things."
Patrol Sergeant Josh Clarke says that what makes Chief Page stand out is his willingness to lead by example.
"He's the highest up here, but you wouldn't know that by working with him," said Clarke. "I mean, he goes out to calls with us."
Detective Captain Vic Koontz says Page always conducts himself with Class -- dignity and a little sense of humor.
"He should be proud, of his career. He's done a good job," said Koontz. "If your idea of a retired guy is somebody that's kicked back on the front porch watching the days pass, that's not gonna be Trent."
For Page, being able to serve the community he grew up in as a police officer has been one of his greatest honors.
"It's always huge when an officer can remain within the community that they grew up in," Page said.
So what's his post-retirement going to be like? Page says he's still trying to figure that out.
"Settling into more of a I guess regular lifestyle, if you will," said Page. "I'm not sure what that is yet, but I assume I'll figure it out. It will be a positive."
