Two Illinois State Police Tele-communicators celebrate retirement

PECATONICA – Illinois State Police (ISP) District Sixteen personnel bid farewell to two Telecommunications Specialists who retired Dec. 31, 2015. Family and co-workers, past and present, honored Gail Johnson of Pecatonica and Cynthia Akins of Rockford.

Gail Johnson began her career with the ISP in 1979. Cynthia Akins has served with ISP since 1995. Both women spent their entire tours with District Sixteen, earning various commendations throughout their time.

“It is amazing to consider the changes in policing and technology to which they’ve had to adapt.” stated Lt. Carl Heintz of District 16 Operations. “The job of a tele-communicator is crucial to the success and safety of our first responders. These two women have done a phenomenal job serving the citizens of Illinois with integrity, service and pride. We wish them all the very best in their future endeavors.”

Illinois State Police Tele-communicators Gail Johnson, of Pecatonica, and Cynthia Akins, of Rockford, shown here at their retirement celebration Dec. 31. Courtesy photo