After more than 24 years with the Macomb Police Department, Chief Jeff Hamer announced he will retire on December 12, 2025, to pursue private sector opportunities. The City of Macomb confirmed the news Tuesday, also naming Lieutenant Todd Tedrow as interim police chief during the transition.
Hamer, a Western Illinois University graduate in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration, said his decision came after careful thought and strong family support.
“Serving as an officer and chief in Macomb has been a dream come true,” Hamer said. “I’m proud of the difference we’ve made together. Now, it’s time to explore new challenges and pass the torch to the next generation of leaders.”
Though he has not yet accepted a specific position, Hamer is interviewing with two companies—one in insurance and one in software— both connected to police accreditation, a field he has worked in since 2012.
“Both are different, not necessarily better,” Hamer said. “They allow me to work remotely, stay in Macomb, and continue serving law enforcement in a new way.”
Reflecting on his tenure, Hamer recalled the challenges from day one.
“My first day, I planned to stabilize the department and improve training for command staff,” he said. “But that night, the house party shooting happened, which was a tough start. Since then, we’ve handled critical incidents and worked hard to build officers’ skills. Stability is hard to achieve these days with recruitment and retention issues, but we’ve made progress.”
Hamer described his leadership style as servant-oriented. “I’ve always aimed to lift up the department and those around me. I’m proud of the command staff and officers here. They’re empathetic, driven, and self-starters. The sky’s the limit for them.”
When asked why he chose to retire before locking in a new job, Hamer explained, “In Illinois, police can retire after 20 years if they’re 50, and start drawing a pension. I’m approaching 25 years, so it’s the right time financially. I feel I’ve done all I can here and want to hand things over to new leaders while continuing to serve law enforcement in other ways.”
Hamer offered advice to his successor: “Serve the people in the building, city hall, and the community. Bring empathy and community engagement to the role. I’m confident Lieutenant Tedrow is ready to take the helm and lead the department forward.”
Mayor Michael Inman praised Hamer’s leadership. “Chief Hamer stepped into a demanding role and led with integrity and dedication,” Inman said. “He has been a true servant leader, both within the department and the community. His presence will be deeply missed.”
Lieutenant Todd Tedrow, a 17-year veteran of the department, will serve as interim chief during the transition.
“It’s a natural progression in my career, and I’m excited for the opportunity,” Tedrow said. “I have full confidence in our department— from patrol officers to detectives and supervisors—and I’m comfortable stepping into this role.”
Before this, Tedrow was lieutenant in the investigations division, managing detectives and school resource officers, handling critical incidents and general cases.
Asked if he will apply for the permanent chief position, Tedrow said, “That’s a good question. This interim period will help me decide if I want to pursue it permanently.”
He is already training with Chief Hamer to ensure a smooth transition. “Some training is complex and ongoing until Chief Hamer’s departure in December,” Tedrow said.
Tedrow’s goals as interim chief include minimizing disruption for officers and the community. “This department is great, and I want to showcase that to attract strong candidates.”
He also plans to continue Hamer’s community engagement efforts. “I’ve been active in community engagement through the FOP Lodge, raising funds for local children. I’ll continue building those relationships.”
While Tedrow has not yet managed a full department budget, he has extensive training, including at Northwestern University, and is confident with support from City Hall. “We’ll manage it successfully.”
Tedrow’s law enforcement career began as a part-time correctional officer in Pike County while in college. He joined Macomb Police in 2009 after graduating from Murray College in Jackson, Illinois.
“I’m excited for the challenge and ready to serve,” he said.
