Skokie Deputy Chief Jesse Barnes Promoted To Replace Retiring Chief

SKOKIE, IL — The retiring Skokie police chief will be succeeded by another careerlong member of the department.

Deputy Chief Jesse Barnes, who started his law enforcement career in the village in 2000, has been appointed to replace retiring Chief Brian Baker when he leaves the role on Dec. 22, according to the village manager's office.

“Chief Barnes is a proven and respected leader who has dedicated his law enforcement career to serving the residents of Skokie,” Village Manager John Lockerby said in a statement.

Among his roles during his career a Skokie cop, Barnes has been a detective, a commander of a tactical intervention team, sergeant of the patrol and investigative services divisions and commander of investigative services, according to Lockerby's office.

“I am confident that his integrity, professionalism, and commitment to excellence, along with his deep understanding of the Skokie community, will further advance the department and support the excellent quality of life our residents enjoy," Lockerby said.

Baker, who started his career as a patrol officer in Skokie in 1994, submitted his retirement notice on Nov. 16, according to village staff, who announced his pending departure on Tuesday.

Barnes was promoted to deputy chief in July 2021. He first oversaw the administration services division and now heads up field operations. The incoming chief also serves and the operations commander of the North Regional Major Crimes Task Force, or NORTAF.

“It is a tremendous honor to serve the residents of Skokie and the Skokie Police Department in this important leadership role,” Barnes said.

“I look forward to building on our department’s core values of life, partnership, excellence and respect as we protect public safety and meet our community’s evolving needs.”

Earlier: Baker Retires After Nearly 30 Years At Skokie PD, 3 As Its Chief