Tim Sommer 39 Occupation: Chief of police, village of Rochester
Email: tsom5985@gmail.com
Education: Bachelor's in law enforcement and justice administration
Family: Spouse Ashleigh; daughter, Annabelle; son Henry
Affiliations/community activities: Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police; Sangamon County Law Enforcement Executives; Central Illinois Association of Law Enforcement Executives; Massey Commission Law Enforcement Hiring, Training, Wellness and Cultural Competency Workgroup; Illinois Concerns of Police Survivors; Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Illinois; Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 55
What is your guiding principle in life?
The simplest acts can significantly impact someone's life. Never miss an opportunity to positively influence another person.
What led you to your current career? I adore the outdoors and desire to help others. I completed an internship with the Sangamon County Sheriff's Office during college and immediately became interested in municipal policing. After spending 13 years on patrol at various local law enforcement agencies and a 10-year tenure in the Illinois Army National Guard, I decided to be a leader as the chief of police in the community where I began my law enforcement career – the village of Rochester.
What is your greatest hope for Springfield? For more citizens to harvest their skills and talents in positive ways to foster a stronger, united and safe community. "Light is the burden of a torch bearer," -Thomas Curtis Clark
What would you like your life to look like in five years? 10? I would like to become more involved in the Law Enforcement Torch Run and Illinois Concerns for Police Survivors.
What would you like to give back to your community? More of my time.
What's the worst career advice you've ever received? "Stop caring as much."
