efficiency, and appropriately allocate resources. ISP Centennial Founded on April 1, 1922, ISP has evolved over the years and has become one of the top law enforcement agencies in the country. In 2022, to celebrate 100 years, ISP hosted several special events including a flag uncasing ceremony, gala, and proclamation signing. ISP’s honor guard presented the colors at numerous sporting events across the state including a presentation at a Chicago Cubs home game at Wrigley Field. ISP also procured 22 limited edition patrol cars with vintage decal package. ISP History Currently known as the Illinois State Police, ISP was founded in 1922 under the name Illinois Highway Maintenance Police. It consisted of Superintendent John H. Stack and eight patrol officers, who required political sponsorship for appointment. At that time, approximately 1,100 miles of paved road existed in Illinois. The focus of the newly formed patrol was to safeguard the citizens of Illinois and protect the new “hard roads” from damage due to overweight vehicles. Portable scales were put into use to check vehicles. Peoria, LaSalle, Kankakee, Danville, and Granite City served as the first “districts.” Officers wore World War I surplus uniforms, belts, caps, and pilot helmets, and rode war surplus motorcycles. When driving at night, officers would light their acetylene headlight. The weight of the portable scales in their side cars helped officers navigate the slick roads during the first winter of patrol. By the end of the first year, there were 20 officers earning a maximum of $150.00 per month. By In 1924, 12 districts had been created, which included Sterling, Collinsville, and Effingham. Manpower was up to 82 men. By 1927, there were 140 officers, one chief, 12 sergeants, and six mechanics. Sergeants were assigned to run a district and were given Chrysler 70 coupes for patrol. Trooper Albert J. Hasson was the first officer to die in the line of duty after being struck by a vehicle in 1924. The first officer killed by gunfire in the line of duty occurred on January 8, 1927. Officer Lory Price and his wife were brutally killed as a result of the Birger and Shelton gang wars. Truck weighing and traffic control remained an emphasis for patrol work, with 4,164 arrests and approximately 65,000 warnings issued for speeding and various offenses. ISP also assisted with numerous county fairs and funeral escorts and offered public assistance when needed. By the