Deputy Police Chief Robert Byrnes

Is an accomplished law enforcement officer with nearly three decades of dedicated service. 

Over his career as a police officer, Robert has been involved in a wide range of criminal investigations, many of which involved dangerous undercover work. Through his tireless efforts, he was able to maintain a 98% conviction rate, helping to stem the tide of gang violence and drug trafficking in the greater Chicagoland area. 

After joining the South Chicago Police Department in 1994, Robert rose rapidly through the ranks with hard work and perseverance. By 2002, Robert’s work in law enforcement was recognized as exceptional by the Illinois Secretary of State, and he was appointed as Deputy Director for the Secretary of State Police Department. Robert was directly responsible for managing the statewide Special Operations Support Division’s resources, including SWAT teams, underwater dive investigations, and the Hazardous Devices Unit. In addition to these duties, Robert oversaw motor vehicle licensing and regulation, identity theft investigations, and security at Secretary of State facilities, as well as the Capitol Complex. 

Robert also serves as a respected member of the Cook County Sheriff’s Police Narcotic High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force (HIDTA) for over 20 years. As a member of this elite unit, Robert led numerous state and Federal criminal cases against violent and repeat offenders. From case building to trial testimony, Robert established himself as an exceptional investigator and expert witness. 

As a member of the International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association, Robert received annual training on criminal trends and investigations. He attended both the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command as well as the Executive Police Management Program. Additionally, he has been certified by the Illinois Training and Standards Board as a gang specialist and investigative training instructor. In his role as an educator, Robert has provided invaluable insight into criminal investigations for hundreds of police officers from different agencies throughout the State of Illinois.