[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 83 (Friday, May 15, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E455-E456]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CONGRATULATING PEORIA POLICE CHIEF ERIC ECHEVARRIA ON HIS RETIREMENT

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. DARIN LaHOOD

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 15, 2026

  Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize and honor Peoria 
Police Chief Eric Echevarria on his retirement and thank him for his 
decades of dedicated service to the people of Illinois and our Nation.
  Chief Echevarria has served as Chief of the Peoria Police Department 
for the past five years, leading the department with professionalism, 
integrity, and a commitment to strengthening public safety throughout 
the Peoria community. Prior to his service in Peoria, Chief Echevarria 
dedicated twenty-two years to the Elgin Police Department, where he 
rose through the ranks and built a reputation as a respected law 
enforcement leader devoted to protecting and serving others.
  Before beginning his law enforcement career, Chief Echevarria proudly 
served four years in the United States Marine Corps. His military 
service instilled in him the values of discipline, leadership, and 
sacrifice that continued to define his career in public service.
  Throughout his tenure as Chief, Eric embraced innovative approaches 
to modern policing and worked to build stronger relationships between 
law enforcement and the community. Under his leadership, the department 
adopted new technologies to address crime more effectively, 
incorporated social workers into co- responder units to better assist 
individuals in crisis, and prioritized meaningful engagement with 
residents across Peoria. His efforts contributed to a significant 
reduction in violent crime and helped strengthen trust between officers 
and the community they serve.
  Chief Echevarria's leadership has left a lasting impact on the City 
of Peoria and set an example for departments across Illinois. He

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has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public safety while 
recognizing the importance of compassion, accountability, and community 
partnership in effective policing.
  I want to extend my sincere congratulations and gratitude to Chief 
Eric Echevarria for his distinguished career and service to our country 
and communities. I wish Eric, his family, and loved ones all the best 
as he begins this next chapter in retirement.