­FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Orland Park Police Department’s Transition to 12-Hour Shifts Enhances Public Safety

Orland Park, IL (March 4, 2026) – On February 1, 2026, the Orland Park Police Department officially transitioned to the highly anticipated 12-hour patrol shift schedule.  This change is designed to increase officer availability, improve operational efficiency, and enhance public safety throughout the community.

The impact of this change has already been measurable. Traffic enforcement efforts have significantly increased, with traffic stops rising by 154 percent since the transition. Officers have also made 28 aggravated speeding arrests from Feb. 1 to Feb. 28, reinforcing the department’s commitment to roadway safety and proactive enforcement.

This enhanced staffing model has led to:

• Increased traffic enforcement throughout the Village
• Greater visibility of officers in neighborhoods and on main roadways
• Expanded patrol presence within Orland Park’s business districts

This shift change allows the department to effectively allocate resources during peak activity hours while maintaining strong consistent coverage across the entire Village. Since implementing the new schedule, the department has increased its average daily staffing to 15 patrol officers and supervisors for each shift. These staffing levels do not include our dedicated Traffic Unit, proactive Targeted Response Unit, or part-time officers who provide additional patrol coverage within the retail and business districts throughout the Village.

The move to 12-hour shifts was brought before the Village Board by members of the department who sought to make a positive change within the organization. In addition to improving staffing efficiency, the new schedule supports officer wellness by allowing personnel more consecutive days off, giving them increased time with their families and promoting a healthier work-life balance.

The Orland Park Police Department remains committed to proactive policing, officer wellness, and ensuring a safe environment for all who live, work, and visit the Village of Orland Park.

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