Mount Carmel Police Department Chief Mike McWilliams has announced his retirement, effective today (Friday). McWilliams shared his decision with the mayor and city council during their meeting earlier this week.
McWilliams concludes a 20-year career with the department, having begun as a dispatcher before advancing through the ranks. He will transition to a new role as an arson investigator with the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office.
Joe Judge**, mayor of Mount Carmel, has appointed Officer Erin Peach as interim police chief. Peach, formerly known as Erin Roe, is a native of Fairfield.
City officials say the interim appointment will ensure continuity of leadership as the department moves forward during the transition.