Vote Reilly – For a Safer, Stronger Will County.

Will County Sheriff’s Police Deputy James Reilly is a highly accomplished law enforcement professional with over 22 years of extensive experience. He currently serves the Will County community in the Enforcement Division of the Will County Sheriff’s Department. Before joining the Will County Sheriff’s Department in 2013, Jim spent eight years with the Joliet Police Department, where he worked in patrol, K-9 operations, and undercover narcotics.

Jim’s expertise extends to working several years as an investigator with the federal and state Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). In this capacity, he led high-profile investigations in Will County, tackling cases involving murder, gang activity, organized crime, and the dismantling of one of the county's largest racketeering and narcotics operations, where he served as a co-case agent.

Beyond law enforcement, Dr. Reilly is a published author dedicated to education and community engagement. He is an adjunct professor at the University of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois, where he teaches courses on law enforcement and social justice, inspiring the next generation of social justice professionals.

Academically, Dr. Reilly holds a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice with a minor in Global Leadership from Walden University, with a dissertation focused on Community Policing. He also earned a Master’s degree from Aurora University and a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Law from DePaul University. During his time at DePaul, he participated in international study programs in Switzerland, Hong Kong, China, France, and Ireland, including studies at the prestigious Trinity College in Dublin.

Coming this fall, (2025) Jim is publishing a book specifically designed to promote and expand community policing efforts throughout the Will County, Illinois community. His book “More Community Policing and Less Politics” has already been well received by several leaders in the law enforcement community.

With his blend of practical experience and academic expertise, Jim Reilly stands as a leader in law enforcement and an advocate for effective community policing practices.