Bloomington Police Chief to retire in June

Posted on April 5, 2019

By Neil Doyle

BLOOMINGTON – Bloomington Police Chief Clay Wheeler announced Friday he plans to retire in June after a year on the job.

Wheeler’s last day will be June 21. He took over in May 2018 after Brendan Heffner retired to become U.S. Marshal for the Central District of Illinois.

“When I became Chief in May 2018, I planned on serving in this capacity for some years,” said Wheeler in a statement. “However, serious family health issues have led me to change those plans. My wife was diagnosed with cancer a month after I took over as Chief, and while she is well on her way to recovery, her struggle with cancer has led me to this decision. It is time to put family first and go enjoy life.”

“It is with regret that I’ve accepted Chief Wheeler’s retirement notice,” said City Manager Tim Gleason. “He has served this community well and led the department with honor and integrity. However, I understand family comes first. While this will be a time of transition for the department, I have full confidence in our dedicated team of public safety professionals.”

Neil Doyle can be reached at [email protected]

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