Inside FHPD
Police Divisions & Leadership
Dedicated teams working together to serve our community.
The Fairview Heights Police Department is made up of dedicated divisions and experienced leaders who work together to provide professional, responsive, and community-focused law enforcement services. Each division plays an important role in supporting public safety and serving the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors throughout the community.
Chief Steven Johnson
Chief Steven Johnson brings more than 40 years of law enforcement experience to the Fairview Heights Police Department. Explore his career, leadership, accomplishments, and commitment to community-focused policing.
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Chief Steven Johnson was appointed Chief of Police for the Fairview Heights Police Department in November 2022. Prior to joining Fairview Heights, Chief Johnson served as Chief of Police for the Swansea Police Department beginning in June 2015, where he focused on community engagement, partnerships, and innovative policing practices.
Leadership & Law Enforcement Experience
Throughout his career, Chief Johnson has demonstrated a commitment to professional leadership and advancing the law enforcement profession. He previously served as President of the Southern Illinois Police Chiefs Association, representing seven counties and 78 law enforcement agencies. He is also a member of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police and serves on its State and Federal Legislative Working Group.
Chief Johnson has participated in national discussions on the future of policing, including serving on a task force of police executives focused on 21st Century Policing and attending White House discussions on law enforcement and community relations.
Before becoming Chief of Police, Chief Johnson spent 25 years with the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Department. Beginning his career as a Law Enforcement Explorer at age 14, he advanced through roles including Patrol Deputy, Sergeant, Master Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain. During his career with the Sheriff’s Department, he spent 16 years in Criminal Investigations and oversaw numerous specialized units, including SWAT, Drug Tactical Unit, Street Crimes Unit, Domestic Violence Unit, Warrants, Evidence, Auto Theft, Public Information, and Courthouse Security.
Education & Professional Development
Chief Johnson holds an Associate Degree in Administration of Justice, a Bachelor’s Degree in Workforce Education, and a Master’s Degree in Computers and Management.
He is a graduate of the Police Executive Role in the 21st Century, a Police Training Board-certified executive leadership program, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Academy (FBINA Session #224) in Quantico, Virginia.
Training, Instruction & Publications
An internationally recognized speaker and instructor, Chief Johnson has trained thousands of law enforcement professionals and community members throughout the United States and abroad.
His areas of expertise include leadership, officer safety, criminal investigations, cybercrime, homeland security, active shooter response, and interview and interrogation techniques. He has instructed through the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC), private training organizations, and local educational institutions.
Chief Johnson is also a published author, with his most recent article appearing in Command Magazine titled “The Hero’s Journey Begins, Again.”
Community Policing & Accomplishments
Throughout his career, Chief Johnson has emphasized community partnerships and proactive policing. During his time as Chief of Police in Swansea, he was recognized as the Belleville News-Democrat Reader’s Choice Award’s Number One Police Officer in 2016, 2017, and 2018.
He implemented numerous community-focused programs, including neighborhood engagement events, school and community foot patrols, Citizens Police and Fire Academies, youth programs, enhanced social media outreach, bicycle and ATV patrols, and partnerships with local organizations.
Chief Johnson also helped establish a Police Community Wellness and Comfort Dog Program and launched a police K9 program through community support and donations.
Specialized Operations & Recognition
Chief Johnson’s extensive experience includes serving as a tactical commander for presidential visits and managing responses to critical incidents involving barricaded suspects, hostage situations, active shooters, civil disturbances, and other high-risk events.
His investigative work has contributed to major cases receiving national media attention, including coverage on Discovery ID, A&E, 60 Minutes, and Lifetime.
Throughout his career, Chief Johnson has received more than 50 awards and honors, including recognition from the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Department, Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis, St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office, U.S. Attorney’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and numerous civic organizations.
Professional & Community Involvement
Chief Johnson is an active member of several professional organizations, including the FBI National Academy Association, Southern Illinois Police Chiefs’ Association, Fraternal Order of Police, International Homicide Investigators’ Association, International Police Association, Illinois Sheriffs’ Association, and National Deputy Sheriffs’ Association.
Beyond law enforcement, Chief Johnson remains committed to serving the community through organizations such as the Fairview Heights Rotary Club and Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Big in Blue program.
A lifelong resident of the Metro East region, Chief Johnson grew up in Belleville and lives nearby with his wife, two daughters, and two grandchildren.
Captain CJ Beyersdorfer is a lifelong member of the Fairview Heights community and has dedicated more than three decades to serving the department and its residents. Throughout his career, Captain Beyersdorfer has held a variety of roles within law enforcement, gaining extensive experience in patrol operations, investigations, training, and department leadership.
Law Enforcement Career
Captain Beyersdorfer began his law enforcement career in January 1991 as a Juvenile Corrections Officer with St. Clair County. Later that year, he joined the Fairview Heights Police Department as a Community Service Officer.
In January 1994, Captain Beyersdorfer joined the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, where he served in multiple assignments, including the North Patrol Division, Asset Forfeiture Unit, Homicide Division, Traffic Division, and as a Detective assigned to the North Patrol Division.
In September 1998, Captain Beyersdorfer returned to the Fairview Heights Police Department as a Police Officer. During his time in patrol, he served in several specialized roles, including Field Training Officer and Coordinator, Department Armorer, Hotel/Motel Unit Officer, and Use of Force Instructor.
Department Leadership & Service
Captain Beyersdorfer’s dedication and service have been recognized through numerous awards and accomplishments, including the Life Saving Award, Officer of the Year (1999), Community Service Award, and five ACE Awards.
In November 2007, he was promoted to Sergeant and assigned to oversee a patrol shift. In 2010, he was assigned to the Criminal Investigations Division, where he continued to develop his leadership and investigative expertise.
Captain Beyersdorfer was promoted to Lieutenant in December 2013. During his time as Lieutenant, he served in multiple leadership roles, including assignments in Patrol, as Support Commander, and as Administrative Lieutenant.
Current Role
In July 2019, Captain CJ Beyersdorfer was promoted to Deputy Chief (Captain), continuing his commitment to leadership, professional development, and service to the Fairview Heights Police Department and community he has proudly called home throughout his life.
Patrol Division
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About the Patrol Division
The Patrol Division serves as the foundation of the Fairview Heights Police Department’s mission. Each day, patrol officers are the department’s most visible presence in the community, responding to calls for service, protecting residents and visitors, and working proactively to prevent crime. Every division and unit within the department, including command staff and administration, exists to support the essential work performed by patrol officers.
Patrol Responsibilities
Patrol officers are responsible for providing daily law enforcement services throughout the community, including:
- Responding to emergency calls and requests for assistance
- Maintaining peace and order throughout the community
- Investigating crimes, incidents, and safety concerns
- Making arrests when necessary
- Enforcing traffic laws and investigating traffic crashes
- Patrolling neighborhoods, businesses, and public areas to deter and detect criminal activity
Division Structure & Operations
The Patrol Division consists of 28 officers organized into four teams, each supervised by a patrol sergeant. Teams operate on 12-hour shifts and remain assigned together for an entire year, allowing officers to build strong teamwork, communication, and familiarity with their responsibilities.
Patrol operations include both day and night shifts, with primary shift start times at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Day shifts consist of a sergeant and six officers, while night shifts consist of a sergeant and five officers.
District Coverage
To provide effective coverage and ensure officers are familiar with the neighborhoods, businesses, and unique needs of the community, the City of Fairview Heights is divided into four patrol districts.
Officers are assigned calls based on their designated district, with additional roaming units available to provide support when district officers are handling other calls. The Mall and surrounding commercial area are designated as a dedicated business district, with an officer assigned daily to provide service and security in this high-traffic area.
Officers rotate district assignments every two weeks, ensuring each member of the Patrol Division develops a thorough understanding of the entire community.
Commitment to Service
Through teamwork, professionalism, and a commitment to service, the Patrol Division works every day to provide a safe environment for residents, businesses, and visitors of Fairview Heights.
Criminal Investigations Division
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About Criminal Investigation Division
The Criminal Investigations Division (CID) plays a vital role in supporting the Fairview Heights Police Department by conducting follow-up investigations into reported criminal activity and working to bring cases forward for prosecution when appropriate.
Investigations & Division Responsibilities
Detectives review initial investigations completed by patrol officers and conduct additional investigative work, including interviewing victims, witnesses, and suspects; gathering and analyzing evidence; processing crime scenes; and preparing cases for presentation to the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office.
Members of the division possess specialized training and expertise in investigative techniques, crime scene processing, interpersonal communication, constitutional law, and search and seizure procedures. Through thorough investigations and collaboration with patrol officers, prosecutors, and other agencies, detectives work to ensure cases are properly investigated and offenders are held accountable.
The Criminal Investigations Division consists of a Division Commander, Detective Sergeant, and eight sworn officers. Five officers serve as detectives investigating general criminal activity occurring within the City of Fairview Heights. The remaining officers serve in specialized assignments with regional and federal law enforcement partners.
Specialized Assignments & Task Forces
Members of the Criminal Investigations Division participate in several collaborative investigative efforts, including the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis and the Child Death Investigations Task Force. These partnerships provide additional resources and expertise for complex investigations.
The department also maintains specialized assignments focused on addressing regional and federal criminal activity:
One detective is assigned to the Metropolitan Enforcement Group of Southwestern Illinois (MEGSI), which investigates street-level drug crimes occurring across a multi-county area.
One detective serves on a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) task force, investigating larger-scale narcotics offenses that fall under federal jurisdiction.
The department is a member of the Metro East Auto Theft Task Force, a regional partnership dedicated to investigating vehicle theft throughout St. Clair and Monroe Counties. The task force is staffed by officers from multiple law enforcement agencies working together to address auto theft and related crimes.
Commitment to the Community
Through collaboration, specialized training, and comprehensive investigative practices, the Criminal Investigations Division works to protect the Fairview Heights community, support victims, and ensure criminal cases are thoroughly investigated and prepared for prosecution.
Support Services & Fees
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Records Department
The Records Department serves as an essential resource for both the Fairview Heights Police Department and the community. Staffed by two civilian employees, the department is responsible for the processing, maintenance, organization, and digitization of police records and reports, including crime reports, accident reports, arrest records, traffic citations, and warning tickets.
The Records Department also prepares the department’s monthly Illinois Uniform Crime Report and provides assistance to residents, businesses, and other law enforcement agencies as needed. In addition to maintaining official records, department staff provide a variety of public services, including fingerprinting, report requests, background checks, property retrieval, offender registrations, tow releases, and medication disposal.
Fingerprinting Services
Fingerprinting services are available to Fairview Heights residents. Individuals requesting fingerprints must:
- Provide a valid photo ID at the time of service
- Provide fingerprint cards if required by an employer, agency, or state (the department provides standard fingerprint cards at no cost)
- Understand that fingerprints are currently processed using ink only
Fingerprinting is available as a walk-in service 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Wait times may vary depending on staff availability. There is no fee for this service.
For questions, contact Dispatch at 618-489-2100 or the Civilian Police Aide on duty at 618-489-2172.
Report Requests (Non-FOIA)
Individuals requesting a copy of a report must be listed within the report. Reports are generally available seven to ten days after they are completed. Availability may be checked after three days by contacting the Records Department.
To request a report:
- A valid photo ID and applicable payment are required for in-person requests
- Requests by mail must include a written request, payment, and a copy of a valid photo ID
- Reports may be requested by contacting the Records Department in advance to help reduce wait times.
Reports are available for $5 per copy. Payment may be made by exact cash, check, money order, or credit card.
The Records Department is open Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Requests submitted after 3:30 p.m. may be processed the following business day depending on staff availability. After-hours report pickup may be available on a case-by-case basis and must be arranged in advance.
Mail requests may be sent to:
Fairview Heights Police Department
Attn: Records Department
10027 Bunkum Road
Fairview Heights, Illinois 62208
FOIA requests may be submitted to foiainfo@fairviewpd.org.
Background Checks
Background checks are available through the Records Department. Individuals must provide a valid photo ID to the Records Clerk.
Requests submitted after 3:30 p.m. may be processed the following business day depending on staff availability.
There is no fee for this service.
Property Retrieval
Property retrieval is available by appointment or arrangement. After-hours pickup may be available on a case-by-case basis, and residents are encouraged to call ahead.
Requirements may include:
- A valid FOID card for firearm retrieval
- Advance authorization if another individual will be picking up property on your behalf
- Additional waiting time depending on the circumstances surrounding the property hold
For assistance, contact Dispatch at 618-489-2100 and request Evidence, or contact Investigative Assistant Tina Bangaru at 618-489-2135.
Tow Release Information (Non-Lienholder)
To obtain a tow release, the registered owner must provide authorization and meet the following requirements:
- Present a valid photo ID
- Provide proof of vehicle ownership
- Provide valid proof of insurance
- Ensure the vehicle is released to an individual with a valid driver’s license
- Pay the required tow release fee of $150 or $400, as listed on the Towed Vehicle Report.
The tow release fee is separate from towing charges and may be paid by cash or credit card. Credit cards must be presented in person, and the cardholder’s name must match the individual requesting the release. Debit cards are accepted if processed as credit.
Tow releases are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Medication Drop Box
A medication disposal drop box is available in the Police Department lobby for the safe disposal of expired or unused medications.
The drop box is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Please note:
- No liquids are accepted
- No needles or sharp objects are accepted
- There is no fee for this service.
The Records Department is committed to providing accurate, accessible, and professional service while maintaining the integrity of police records and supporting the needs of the Fairview Heights community.
Honor Guard
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About FHPD Honor Guard
The Fairview Heights Police Department Honor Guard serves as an official representation of the department at ceremonial events, memorial services, and community functions. The unit honors fallen law enforcement officers and first responders, presents the colors at special events, and serves as an ambassador for the department.
Formation & Training
The Honor Guard was established in April 2008 as the department’s first official Honor Guard unit. It was created to represent the Police Department during fallen officer and firefighter funerals, ceremonial presentations, and community events.
During the unit’s formation, former Chief of Police Edward Delmore sought guidance from Darrin DeCoster of the Fairfax County, Virginia Police Department. DeCoster, a former member of the U.S. Army Old Guard and sentinel at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, provided specialized training to help establish the unit’s standards and traditions.
Training included drill movements, flag etiquette, rifle and flag presentations, hand movements, and ceremonial posture.
Community & Ceremonial Service
Shortly after completing initial training, the Honor Guard was selected to present the colors during the National Anthem at the 2008 St. Louis Cardinals opening game.
Since then, the Honor Guard has been invited to participate in numerous events and ceremonies, including:
- SWIC Police Academy graduations
- Fairview Heights Police Department Senior and Youth Academies
- St. Louis Blues Hockey Team Heroes Night
- Grace Church Memorial Day celebration
- Guns & Hoses Police vs. Firefighters boxing match
- Southern Illinois Police Chiefs Association and Southern Illinois Law Enforcement Commission annual training seminar
- St. Clair County Sheriff’s Memorial;
Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Springfield, Illinois - Fallen officer funeral services
Current Unit
The Fairview Heights Police Department Honor Guard currently consists of 10 sworn officers who proudly represent the department through professionalism, tradition, and service at events throughout the region.
Contact An Officer
Phone
Non-Emergency
618.489.2100
Administration
618.489.2158
Investigations
618.489.2130
Crime-Free Housing
618.489.2144
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