Shawneetown Chief of Police retires after 30 years
</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[Shawneetown Chief of Police Robert "Radar" Patton is retiring from his position after 30 years of working as chief. Patton started his career in the Gallatin County sheriff's department in 1974, then entered the Shawneetown police force in 1979. He became chief in 1981, and has served in that position ever since.
"I always said I would know when it's time to retire," said Patton.
Patton, who is the longest running police chief in Illinois, has served under six separate mayors. He said he has gotten along well with all of the mayors.
"I've really enjoyed my time here," said Patton. "The people have been good to me."
Shawneetown police officer Gary Jones will take Patton's place when he retires. Patton's last day was Monday.
"Gary will do a good job," said Patton. "It's time for someone else to take the reins."
Patton said he tried to work closely with the youth of the city throughout his tenure as chief, and hopes the new leadership will continue that work.
Patton plans to do some part-time work with the sheriff's department and continue coaching high school basketball in his retirement. He also said he may go back to coaching other sports at the high school level.
"It will be a transition for all of us," said Patton. "But I hope everybody the best."