O’FALLON, Ill. – Officer Tom Bates is retiring from the O’Fallon Police Department after more than 25 years of service to the communities of O’Fallon and Shiloh, according to a department announcement.
Bates served more than 20 years with O’Fallon Police after five years with the Shiloh Police Department.
During his tenure in O’Fallon, Bates served as a patrol officer, senior officer, field training officer, honor guard member, detective and investigator with the Major Case Squad.
The department praised Bates for his contributions as it grew and changed, describing him as a resource for younger officers.
“His experience, professionalism, and calm approach to the job have made him someone our younger officers could look to and learn from,” the department said. “He has been a trusted coworker, mentor, and friend to many throughout the department.”
The department also extended its best wishes to Bates and his family as he enters retirement.
