Illinois Valley Times

In an April 1 Facebook post, Illinois state Rep. John Cabello celebrated Illinois State Trooper Day.

"Thank you to the Illinois State Police for 101 years of “Integrity, Service, Pride” – We are proud to honor our Illinois State Troopers today and every day for the work they do protecting our home," Cabello wrote. "Happy Illinois State Trooper Day!"

Cabello was elected to represent the 90th District in November 2022. He previously served in the House of Representatives in 2012, 2014, 2016, and 2018. According to Ballotpedia, he lost in 2020.

Illinois Lt. Gov. Julia Stratton also used social media to honor the Illinois State Police (ISP).

"April 1 is Illinois State Trooper Day, a day to honor the dedicated men and women of the @ILStatePolice," Stratton wrote in an April 1 tweet. "Thank you for your steadfast service and sacrifice."

The ISP was founded in 1922, according to the state’s website. Initially, the law enforcement organization was called the Illinois Highway Maintenance Police. In 1954, the name was changed to the Illinois State Highway Police Department of Public Safety. In 1957, a new law allowed for 1,100 full-time officers and 100 officers contracted to the Illinois Toll Highway Authority. In 1988, the state adopted the Illinois State Police name.

Along with name changes, the ISP has undergone several other changes over the years, including the identification and credentials ISP officers carry.

To improve the distinction of state policemen, the General Assembly implemented new badge requirements in 1999. The Assembly required all badges to be clearly marked on the front with the name of the agency and an identifying number for the officer. Since 2001, this ID has been issued to all ISP sworn officers.