FREEPORT — Sheriff Steve Stovall has officially announced that he will seek reelection for a second term as Stephenson County Sheriff.
“Serving the people of Stephenson County as Sheriff since December 1, 2022, has been the honor of my life,” Sheriff Stovall said. “Although we have accomplished a great deal in my first term, there is still more to be done. I remain committed to putting the Sheriff’s Office on a path toward being the tip of the spear for law enforcement in northwest Illinois.”
During his first term, Sheriff Stovall has led the Sheriff’s Office through a period of significant progress and modernization. Key accomplishments include:
● Public Safety & Accessibility: Launch of a new, interactive website with more information than ever before, allowing the public to easily access forms, submit complaints, request services, and communicate with the Sheriff’s Office online. In addition, the Sheriff’s Office launched its first-ever mobile app — now with nearly 15,000 downloads — allowing real-time emergency notifications to the public.
● Manpower & Patrol: Reallocation of personnel to strengthen patrol coverage, creation of the Crime Suppression Unit in partnership with the Stephenson County Board, and prioritization of school safety through onsite training with school staff.
● Technology Upgrades: Deployment of body-worn cameras for all deputies, installation of high-quality in-car camera systems that integrate with BWC footage, ensuring transparency and evidentiary integrity.
● Specialized Services: Hiring the Office’s first Social Service Administrator, creation of a Special Victims Unit with a specially trained investigator to handle sensitive cases with the utmost care.
Sheriff Stovall emphasized that his focus for the next term will be to continue building on these successes and ensuring the Sheriff’s Office remains innovative, responsive, and community-focused.
“Together, we have laid a strong foundation for the future,” Stovall said. “I ask for the continued trust and support of the people of Stephenson County as we work to make our community even safer.”
