Badge Number 204 In Park Forest Retired For Officer Tim Jones

PARK FOREST, IL — Badge number 204 at the Park Forest Police Department will forever be reserved for Officer Tim Jones, who was shot in the head and seriously wounded in the line of duty in 2016. It's the first time Park Forest police have ever retired a badge number for an officer, Police Chief Christopher Mannino said.

"Typically badge numbers at the Park Forest Police Department are recycled as officers get promoted, retire, or otherwise leave and new officers fill those positions," Mannino said. "We have never before reserved a badge number for an officer, however, it became clear that badge number 204 was clearly identified as being Tim’s both within the police department and within the community, so we felt that a great way to honor him would be to officially reserve the badge number through resolution by the Village Board."

"TimStrong 204" graphics were already on every Park Forest police car and one car — Jones' original "16-1" car — has larger graphics dedicated to Jones on the entire side and front of the vehicle, Mannino said.

The retirement of Jones' badge number is also commemorated with a plaque displayed in the lobby of the Park Forest police station.

Mannino said Jones is progressing in his recovery more than four years later at a rate "many medical experts did not think possible."

"Tim continues to work hard, literally daily, at recovery," Mannino said. "Despite some serious physical challenges, his attitude remains extremely positive and he is enjoying life, surrounded by his family and friends who continue to support him. We keep in touch with him and his family, and through various events or get-togethers have opportunities to see him several times every year."