MAHOMET, IL (Chambana Today) – Mahomet Police Chief Michael Metzler has announced his retirement, effective September 30, 2025, capping a distinguished 46-year career in law enforcement, including the last 14 years as chief of the Mahomet Police Department.

Metzler, who joined the department in 2011, helped guide the agency through significant growth, increasing the number of sworn officers from 7 to 15, embracing new technology, and introducing enhanced training and safety measures. Under his leadership, the department implemented body and in-car cameras, cloud-based evidence systems, and became the only agency in Champaign County to fully integrate electronic citations and accident reports.

Village Administrator Patrick Brown credited Metzler with helping transition Mahomet’s police force from a small-town department into a forward-thinking public safety organization. “The department was at a crossroads,” Brown said. “Mike brought the leadership and energy we needed to meet the challenges of a growing community.”

Metzler also introduced several community-focused programs, such as active shooter training in schools, Stop the Bleed sessions, and the deployment of AEDs and NARCAN in all patrol vehicles. His efforts extended to infrastructure as well, including the installation of a METCAD radio tower to enhance communication, especially in schools.

Village President Jason Tompkins praised Metzler’s lasting impact. “Chief Metzler has been a true leader, advancing the department with top-notch personnel and technology. His presence will be sorely missed, but he leaves the Mahomet Police Department well-positioned for the future.”

A nationwide search is underway for his successor, managed by Arndt Municipal Support Inc., with the goal of hiring a new chief by September 1 to ensure a smooth transition.

Metzler began his career in 1979 with the Urbana Police Department and later served as a firearms instructor and associate director at the University of Illinois Police Training Institute. A Sterling, Illinois native, he holds a degree in political science from the University of Illinois and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy.

Reflecting on his time in Mahomet, Metzler expressed gratitude: “It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the Mahomet community and work alongside the dedicated men and women of this department.”