MAHOMET, Ill. (WCIA) — Dave Smysor has been officially introduced as Mahomet’s new police chief. With an extensive 24-year career at the Urbana Police Department, Smysor takes over from former chief Michael Metzler.

A long-term resident of Mahomet for 18 years, Smysor is committed to enhancing the department’s achievements. He aims to prioritize community engagement while keeping mental health prominently in focus.

“Officer wellness largely involves taking care of your team and dismantling some of the barriers that have existed,” he explained. “Our profession is improving in understanding the traumas encountered in this field, and it’s important to acknowledge when help is needed.”