The City of Galesburg proudly announces the selection of Kevin Legate as Police Chief. Legate, who has served as Deputy Police Chief since July 2023 and as Acting Police Chief since March of this year, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to the role.
“Chief Legate has done an exceptional job leading the Galesburg Police Department through a challenging transition, solidifying his place as a leader of outstanding character and judgment,” said City Manager Eric Hanson. “Throughout his dedicated career with the Galesburg Police Department, he has earned the confidence of his community and colleagues, and I am certain he will continue to excel in this new role.”
Legate graduated from Western Illinois University with a Bachelor of Law Enforcement and Justice Administration. He continued professional development throughout his career, subsequently completing senior-level training, including the Police Supervisory Role in the 21st Century from the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board, and the School of Police Staff and Command at Northwestern University’s Center for Public Safety.
Legate began his law enforcement career as a patrol officer for Rock Island, Illinois, before joining the Galesburg Police Department in 2001 as a patrol officer. He subsequently served as a MEG Agent with the Peoria Multi-County Narcotic Unit before returning to the Galesburg Police Department in 2009 as an Investigator. Since that time, he rose through the ranks to serve as a Sergeant, Lieutenant, Deputy Police Chief, and Acting Police Chief with the Galesburg Police Department.
“I am honored to have been selected as Galesburg Police Chief,” said Legate. “It’s a privilege to lead an outstanding staff, and I am profoundly grateful for their hard work and commitment. I look forward to guiding the department to its full potential, ensuring Galesburg is a community where all citizens feel safe and confidently rely on the Police Department to serve with integrity, transparency, and dedication.”
With over 25 years of distinguished law enforcement experience, Legate possesses the necessary attributes, skills, and education required of an exemplary Police Chief. His steadfast service to the Galesburg Police Department has unequivocally proven he is the ideal candidate for this role.
”It is a great honor to appoint Acting Chief Legate as Galesburg’s next Chief of Police. I am confident he is the right person to lead our department today and into the future,” said City Manager Eric Hanson.
***Courtesy of the City of Galesburg***
