Huntley Police deputy chief promoted to chief of police
HUNTLEY — As previously reported, At the May 23 Village Board meeting, it was announced that Huntley Police Chief Robert Porter would be retiring effective June 7 after serving the village since 2015. While his successor was not named at the time, the village officially announced the promotion of Huntley Police Deputy Chief Linda Hooten to Porter’s former role on June 7.
“Chief Hooten is committed to the highest of integrity and professionalism. She is keenly aware of the importance of community partnerships in fulfilling the mission of the Huntley Police Department. With over 22 years of dedicated service to the Huntley community, Hooten’s extensive experience, strong leadership qualities, and dedication to the profession make her the natural choice to lead the Huntley Police Department,” said Huntley Village Manager Dave Johnson in a press release statement.
Hooten’s journey through the ranks of the Huntley Police Department has been marked by a series of notable achievements. She has served as a patrol officer, school resource officer, investigations sergeant, patrol sergeant, and since 2021, as deputy chief of the patrol division.
During her tenure at the Huntley Police Department, Hooten has been instrumental in developing multiple programs within the department, including LEAD the Way, Domestic Violence Follow-up, the Huntley High School Teen Forum, Tri-Area Teen Court (T.A.C.T.), and Police Peer Support.
In addition, Hooten was an active member of the Family Violence Coordinating Council (FVCC) in McHenry County and spearheaded county-wide training on a variety of topics related to domestic violence and sexual assault investigations.
In her new role, Hooten plans to continue focusing on these priorities while focusing on improving police-community relations.
“I am honored to be selected as the next chief of the Huntley Police Department. My law enforcement career began here in 2001. I am humbled by the decision to entrust me with the responsibility of leading the men and women of the department into the future,” stated Hooten in a press release statement. “I fully appreciate and look to build upon the strong partnership between the department and our community. Together, we will continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of all those that live in and visit Huntley.”
Hooten holds a bachelor’s degree from Western Illinois University with a double major in Law Enforcement and Psychology. She also holds a master’s degree from Western Illinois University in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration. Additionally, she graduated from the FBI National Academy and Northwestern University’s Center for Public Safety Supervision of Police Personnel. Hooten is Certified Eligible through the Illinois Chiefs of Police Association.
Community leaders have praised Hooten’s promotion, expressing optimism about the positive impact of her leadership.
“I am confident Chief Hooten will carry on the legacy of exceptional leadership in the Huntley Police Department and is committed to keeping the community safe,” said Huntley Village President Tim Hoeft. “I look forward to our residents having the opportunity to interact with Chief Hooten and supporting her as Chief.”
As she steps into her new role, Hooten remains focused on her core mission: to protect and serve the citizens of Huntley with honor, integrity, and dedication.
