Illinois Conservation Police

Illinois Department of Natural Resources - Office of Law Enforcement There were three of them: one each for the Chicago, Peoria, and Quincy's area.

EARLY HISTORY
The first "Game Wardens" hired in Illinois were appointed by the Governor in 1885. They served a two-year term and were paid by receiving a portion of the fine monies collected from arrests they made for game law violations. They traveled the state by train, and would often be away from home for many days at a time. Fourteen years later, in 1899, twenty-two additional Game Wardens we

re hired. Fisheries' laws were introduced many years after the first game laws, resulting in the hiring of several "Fish Wardens" in 1911. Game Wardens didn't enforce fish laws back then. Game Wardens and Fish Wardens joined forces and became the "Division of Fish & Game" in 1917, a new division of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. The Department of Conservation was created in 1925. Agriculture's "Division of Fish & Game" joined the Department of Conservation in 1928, being renamed the "Division of Law Enforcement." The Game Wardens and Fish Wardens now were interchangeable, having the authority to enforce both fish and game laws instead of only one or the other. Because of this, their titles of Game Warden and Fish Warden were first changed to "Constable," replaced later by the title of "Inspector" (which they held until 1974). MODERN HISTORY
The Conservation Department's Inspectors (unofficially referred to as Game Wardens) received additional enforcement duties in 1959 when the Boat Registration & Safety Act was passed. At first, it was thought that the Illinois State Police or some other agency would be responsible for enforcing the new boating laws. However, because Conservation's Law Enforcement Division already had boats (nearly each Inspector had his own boat to enforce fish laws and to check waterfowl hunters), they were to be the primary boating enforcement agency (which included the Department's new responsibility of handling the registration of all motor boats). The next increase in job duties occurred in the mid to late sixties when legislation was passed giving Conservation's Law Enforcement Division full police authority within the Department's state park system. Prior to this, the Inspectors could only enforce game laws, fish laws, and boating laws. Now, they could enforce all of the state's laws (traffic laws, criminal and drug laws, etc.) within the Department's owned, managed, or leased properties. Because the law enforcement authority had increased to include duties above and beyond traditional game and fish enforcement, the Inspector's official title was changed to "Conservation Police Officer" (or "CPO") in 1974. In July of 1995, the Department of Conservation merged with several smaller departments to form what is now the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (or the DNR), yet we are still referred to as Conservation Police Officers. Since the beginning, the first title of "Game Warden" seemed to be the one that has endured, and many people still use that title today for CPOs (not only in Illinois, but throughout the country). ENFORCEMENT DUTIES
Today, although CPOs have full police authority in the enforcement of all Illinois Compiled Statutes, their enforcement mission is to focus upon those laws and activities associated with natural resource protection and recreational safety. Examples of the duties include:

* enforcing criminal laws, vehicle laws, drug laws, etc. in the State Parks.

* patrolling on Illinois lakes and rivers to check boating safety equipment and watercraft registration

* enforcing the fish and wildlife laws (checking hunters, trappers, sport and commercial fishermen for licenses, fish & game size/possession limits, season dates and hours, etc.)

* enforcing timber buyers and forest products transportation laws; endangered species laws; snowmobile registration and operation laws; Federal fish & wildlife laws; commercial establishments (e.g fur buyers, taxidermists, fish markets) and Departmental (DNR) Administrative Rules & Regulations

NON-ENFORCEMENT DUTIES

Not all of the duties involve enforcement. A CPO's workload involves non-enforcement activities, such as:

* speaking at sport or hunt clubs, civic organizations, school classes, etc.

* staffing information booths at major sports, travel or boating expositions, or during "Law Enforcement Career Days" at specific colleges/universities/high schools in Illinois

* assisting with hunting, boating, and snowmobiling safety education programs

* assisting other law enforcement agencies, or to help in certain emergency/rescue situations

* providing instruction to other police agencies in certain "Conservation type" laws or related enforcement procedures

* working with college students who earn credit hours in an internship program, by working with veteran Conservation Police Officers to learn about the duties and responsibilities.

* attending various in-service type training programs such as: legal and legislative updates, first aid/CPR refreshers, and officer survival training (self defense and use of fi****ms); and specialized schools (such as forensics, commercial establishments, sonar use, waterfowl enforcement, interview & interrogation schools, DUI and OUI enforcement [operating watercraft while under the influence alcohol or drugs], accident investigation [boating/hunting], etc.).

Photos from Illinois Conservation Police's post

04/21/2026

Lt. Hoftender was nominated and awarded the 2026 Women in Law Enforcement Leadership Award; in recognition of her exceptional leadership, professionalism, and measurable impact on both her district, the Northwest Zone and the communities she serves. In a short period following her promotion, she has demonstrated an outstanding ability to balance complex supervisory responsibilities, operational demands, and administrative oversight while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy, accountability, and timeliness. Lt. Hoftender leads from the front, maintaining a strong field presence while fostering a culture of trust, collaboration, and inclusion within her district and the Northwest Zone. She actively mentors her officers, enforces accountability, and consistently sets clear expectations that drive performance and professionalism. Her commitment to officer development, combined with her proactive approach to training and leadership initiatives, has strengthened operational readiness and enhanced team cohesion. Her ability to manage competing priorities, anticipate future needs, and deliver high-quality results ahead of deadlines distinguishes her as a highly effective and motivated leader. Through strong community engagement and partnership-building, she has further elevated public trust and advanced the mission of the department. Lt. Hoftender’s servant-leadership approach, initiative, and unwavering dedication have made a lasting and positive impact across her district and the Northwest Zone. She exemplifies the qualities of leadership, integrity, and excellence that this award seeks to recognize.

Contact your local CPO or report an incident on the IDNR website links below. You can follow us on Facebook and Instagram

https://dnr2.illinois.gov/OLETIPHotline/ https://dnr.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/dnr/lawenforcement/documents/districtcpophonesandemails.pdf

12/08/2025

** Seeking Public Assistance with an on-going investigation of the unlawful take of a Trumpeter Swan**

On 12/5/2025, the Marion County Conservation Police Officer began investigating the unlawful take of a Trumpeter Swan. The Trumpeter was found deceased around Kinmundy, Illinois. After x-rays were taken of the deceased trumpeter swan it was discovered to have numerous bb’s in the bird. It should be noted there have been numerous trumpeter swans located around the Kinmundy area recently; as well as Carlyle Lake. Any information regarding the trumpeter swan can be directly sent to the Marion County Conservation Police Officer (618-383-6977).

Community involvement is crucial for wildlife protection, and any leads can be reported anonymously on the TIP Hotline https://dnr.illinois.gov/lawenforcement/target-poachers.html

Contact your local CPO or report an incident on the IDNR website links below. You can follow us on Facebook and Instagram

https://dnr2.illinois.gov/OLETIPHotline/ https://dnr.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/dnr/lawenforcement/documents/districtcpophonesandemails.pdf

09/08/2025

WE ARE HIRING! Deadline to apply 09/09/2025
Visit the link below to begin the application process for the position of CPO Trainee. When hired, CPOTs complete the 16 week basic law enforcement academy (unless currently ILETSB certified), the 16 week Conservation Police Academy, followed by field training.

https://illinois.jobs2web.com/job/Springfield-CONSERVATION-POLICE-OFFICER-TRAINEE-IL-62702/1318011100/?fbclid=IwY2xjawMlcHZleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFxZGFDeG5DbmdZNEtwUUZEAR4RUV4tropopq2fj3JEpKjwlvx6YUlMhL3R-7KQG0vcuXuUWwkEx4_rtU--9A_aem_4vzMt6ywgy7u_S7BXHaU9A

To learn more about the job of a CPO, eligibility requirements, training, and benefits visit the IDNR Conservation Police website.

https://dnr.illinois.gov/lawenforcement/conservationpoliceofficercareeropportunities.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawMlcHZleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFxZGFDeG5DbmdZNEtwUUZEAR4RUV4tropopq2fj3JEpKjwlvx6YUlMhL3R-7KQG0vcuXuUWwkEx4_rtU--9A_aem_4vzMt6ywgy7u_S7BXHaU9A

Contact your local CPO or report an incident on the IDNR website links below. You can follow us on Facebook and Instagram

https://dnr2.illinois.gov/OLETIPHotline/
https://dnr.illinois.gov/.../districtcpophonesandemails.pdf

09/03/2025

WE ARE HIRING! Deadline to apply 09/09/2025

Visit the link below to begin the application process for the position of CPO Trainee. When hired, CPOTs complete the 16 week basic law enforcement academy (unless currently ILETSB certified), the 16 week Conservation Police Academy, followed by field training.

https://illinois.jobs2web.com/job/Springfield-CONSERVATION-POLICE-OFFICER-TRAINEE-IL-62702/1318011100/?fbclid=IwY2xjawMlcHZleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFxZGFDeG5DbmdZNEtwUUZEAR4RUV4tropopq2fj3JEpKjwlvx6YUlMhL3R-7KQG0vcuXuUWwkEx4_rtU--9A_aem_4vzMt6ywgy7u_S7BXHaU9A

To learn more about the job of a CPO, eligibility requirements, training, and benefits visit the IDNR Conservation Police website.

https://dnr.illinois.gov/lawenforcement/conservationpoliceofficercareeropportunities.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawMlcHZleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFxZGFDeG5DbmdZNEtwUUZEAR4RUV4tropopq2fj3JEpKjwlvx6YUlMhL3R-7KQG0vcuXuUWwkEx4_rtU--9A_aem_4vzMt6ywgy7u_S7BXHaU9A

Contact your local CPO or report an incident on the IDNR website links below. You can follow us on Facebook and Instagram

https://dnr2.illinois.gov/OLETIPHotline/
https://dnr.illinois.gov/.../districtcpophonesandemails.pdf

08/27/2025

WE ARE HIRING! Deadline to apply 09/09/2025

Visit the link below to begin the application process for the position of CPO Trainee. When hired, CPOTs complete the 16 week basic law enforcement academy (unless currently ILETSB certified), the 16 week Conservation Police Academy, followed by field training.

https://illinois.jobs2web.com/job/Springfield-CONSERVATION-POLICE-OFFICER-TRAINEE-IL-62702/1318011100/?fbclid=IwY2xjawMcVGNleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETBSalJqamN0S2hvVVAxVUlZAR4dfnJoYu5barihx_HXkX3uRFSbWXL53D43gCM0CyeEtTeV2QTaSZ8gvq4ytA_aem_bDKR24bARVKD3fcnYEHYLw

To learn more about the job of a CPO, eligibility requirements, training, and benefits visit the IDNR Conservation Police website.

https://dnr.illinois.gov/lawenforcement/conservationpoliceofficercareeropportunities.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawMcVGRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETBSalJqamN0S2hvVVAxVUlZAR6ax-gw8WU-g_uhR6Kk7T33lUBJGDyt7X3L8pqgCeyBf9SWxndOy8VRXI-rAg_aem_7ZDxgZKyU35tDuWBEn9dJQ

Contact your local CPO or report an incident on the IDNR website links below. You can follow us on Facebook and Instagram

https://dnr2.illinois.gov/OLETIPHotline/ https://dnr.illinois.gov/.../districtcpophonesandemails.pdf

08/22/2025

In March of 2025, CPO Hillis started an investigation into a Chicago resident who was reportingly selling sport fish. On 04/12/2025, CPO Kuffel located the Chicago resident operating a boat on the Illinois River in Marshall County. The individual had no fishing license and was in possession of 38 grass carp and 70 pounds of roe. The boat was rigged to shock fish illegally. Hongchun Liu was cited for unlawful use of electricity to take aquatic life and 12 other fishing violations. His iPhone, boat, trailer, fish, roe, nets, and all fishing-related equipment were seized. Forfeiture paperwork was filed through the Marshall County States Attorney’s Office.

On 7/01/2025, Hongchun Liu appeared in court in Marshall County. Hongchun plead guilty to unlawful take of aquatic life. The 1996 Basstracker. 2023 Karavan trailer, five Batteries, two power Inverters, three large Coolers, and all other equipment were awarded to the DNR. He was additionally ordered to pay a $276 fine.

The day before the guilty plea, CPO Kuffel located Liu fishing on the Illinois River in Putnam County in a new boat. Liu was cited for no fishing license, not wearing his lanyard, no Type-4 throwable, and failure to secure a child under 13 in a PFD.
On 7/31/2025, Liu plead guilty to all four Putnam County charges and was fined $1,120.

WE ARE HIRING!
Visit the link below to begin the application process for the position of CPO Trainee. When hired, CPOTs complete the 16 week basic law enforcement academy (unless currently ILETSB certified), the 16 week Conservation Police Academy, followed by field training.

https://illinois.jobs2web.com/job/Springfield-CONSERVATION-POLICE-OFFICER-TRAINEE-IL-62702/1318011100/?fbclid=IwY2xjawMVyMVleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFzemZiTnl4eFphZVIzSjVHAR6_7ZlbHN08GU3Oi5vgWRQjo4fb1tOVHcWZT6PA8jdoPFfO98_EJnJeMpLc_A_aem_9jQDg2Dufgu02LDq9WiPCQ

To learn more about the job of a CPO, eligibility requirements, training, and benefits visit the IDNR Conservation Police website.

https://dnr.illinois.gov/lawenforcement/conservationpoliceofficercareeropportunities.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawMVyMdleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFzemZiTnl4eFphZVIzSjVHAR70WmJrZ2CUkytVJz5MZLZroNuUGG9-5GXdRfPOqPdqpG9OGG_UAt79S6I-Kg_aem_VbMOsJGmMPMpezAwovqp7g

Contact your local CPO or report an incident on the IDNR website links below. You can follow us on Facebook and Instagram

https://dnr2.illinois.gov/OLETIPHotline/ https://dnr.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/dnr/lawenforcement/documents/districtcpophonesandemails.pdf

08/19/2025

WE ARE HIRING!

Visit the link below to begin the application process for the position of CPO Trainee. When hired, CPOTs complete the 16 week basic law enforcement academy (unless currently ILETSB certified), the 16 week Conservation Police Academy, followed by field training.

https://illinois.jobs2web.com/job/Springfield-CONSERVATION-POLICE-OFFICER-TRAINEE-IL-62702/1318011100/

To learn more about the job of a CPO, eligibility requirements, training, and benefits visit the IDNR Conservation Police website.

https://dnr.illinois.gov/lawenforcement/conservationpoliceofficercareeropportunities.html

Contact your local CPO or report an incident on the IDNR website links below. You can follow us on Facebook and Instagram

https://dnr2.illinois.gov/OLETIPHotline/ https://dnr.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/dnr/lawenforcement/documents/districtcpophonesandemails.pdf

08/14/2025

If you are interested in a career as a Conservation Police Officer, keep an eye on our social media pages for information on hiring opportunities in the near future.

This week we are highlighting the CPOTs’ pistol week curriculum which is additional training beyond the mandatory 40 hour training in the Basic Training Academy. CPOTs also complete a 40 hour rifle and shotgun training as well as rapid deployment, force on force, and other scenario based training.
The Illinois Conservation Police currently have 14 Conservation Police Officer Trainees (CPOT) attending IDNR Academy hosted at the Macon County Law Enforcement Training Center. All CPOTs must complete the 16-week IDNR Academy after graduating the 16 week, 640-Hour Basic Training Academy.

Contact your local CPO or report an incident on the IDNR website links below. You can follow us on Facebook and Instagram

https://dnr2.illinois.gov/OLETIPHotline/ https://dnr.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/dnr/lawenforcement/documents/districtcpophonesandemails.pdf

07/30/2025

The Illinois Conservation Police currently have 14 Conservation Police Officer Trainees (CPOT) attending IDNR Academy hosted at the Macon County Law Enforcement Training Center. All CPOTs must complete the 16-week IDNR Academy after graduating the 16 week, 640-Hour Basic Training Academy. This week CPOTs are conducting Arrest and Control Tactics curriculum.

If you are interested in a career as a Conservation Police Officer, keep an eye on our social media pages for more information from the IDNR Academy and for upcoming information on hiring opportunities.

Contact your local CPO or report an incident on the IDNR website links below. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram

https://dnr2.illinois.gov/OLETIPHotline/ https://dnr.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/dnr/lawenforcement/documents/districtcpophonesandemails.pdf

07/18/2025

While patrolling District 3. CPOs Gates and Caballero caught fishing Braidwood Lake in the restricted area after sunset. CPOs along with an intern watched as the men continued to catch fish while in the restricted area. When CPOs made contact with the men, 3 clear garbage bags of Hybrid Striped Bass were found. Along with beer cans, they were leaving behind along the shore. A total of 93 fish were found to be in their possession. Only 5 of the Hybrid Striped Bass were able to be released alive. 6 catfish and the remaining fish were seized and placed on ice. Majority of Hybrid Striped Bass measured between 15-16”. The three men were all issued citations for entering and remaining in a restricted area, being in a park after sunset, littering in a state park, and unlawful possession of stripers exceeding their daily limit of 10 per person. Civil penalties for the fish will be assessed. CPOs are also going to pursue charges for felony resource theft.

Contact your local CPO or report an incident on the IDNR website links below. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram

https://dnr2.illinois.gov/OLETIPHotline/ https://dnr.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/dnr/lawenforcement/documents/districtcpophonesandemails.pdf

07/18/2025

Out-of-state deer poachers ordered to pay nearly $120,000 in southern Illinois

The case was investigated jointly by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Illinois Conservation Police, with support from USFWS Federal Wildlife Officers, ATF, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi.

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+12177826302

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https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/LawEnforcement/Pages/default.aspx, https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/LawEnforcement/Documents/D

Address

1 Natural Resources Way
Springfield, IL

Illinois Conservation Police

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