Rock Falls Police Chief David Pilgrim Announces Retirement

URGENT UPDATE: Rock Falls Police Chief David Pilgrim has confirmed he will retire at the end of September, with a formal announcement set for the September 2 City Council meeting at 5:30 p.m. This news comes amid heightened scrutiny surrounding the department following a murder investigation that has drawn public criticism.

Pilgrim, who has served in law enforcement for over 24 years, stated that his decision to retire is entirely personal and not influenced by calls for his resignation. He emphasized, “I was not asked or forced to leave,” responding to allegations from the father of murder victim Daniel “DJ” Gordon, who had publicly demanded Pilgrim’s departure due to perceived investigative failures.

The Rock Falls Police Department has faced intense scrutiny since the tragic stabbing death of DJ Gordon on February 14, where he was found unresponsive with multiple stab wounds. Kyle Cooper, the suspect in the case, was charged with first-degree murder but ultimately pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, receiving a maximum 20-year sentence on May 22. This plea followed a series of hearings where defense arguments brought into question the integrity of the police investigation.

In June, following Cooper’s sentencing, DJ’s father publicly criticized the police leadership, declaring, “The department’s poor leadership is what led to those investigative errors.” Despite this, both Mayor Rod Kleckler and Police and Fire Commission Chairman Brian Snow have publicly supported the police department, asserting that no mishandling occurred during the investigation.

During his time as chief, which began in 2021, Pilgrim has been a pivotal figure in the community, beginning his career with the Rock Falls Police Department in August 2001. Reflecting on his retirement, he noted, “It’s just time for a change.”

As the situation unfolds, the upcoming city council meeting is expected to address the implications of Pilgrim’s retirement and the ongoing concerns regarding the police department’s handling of critical investigations.

What’s Next: Community members and officials will gather on September 2 to hear Pilgrim’s formal announcement. Observers will be keen to see how this transition affects ongoing public discourse surrounding police accountability in Rock Falls.

This development marks a significant moment of change within the Rock Falls Police Department, as both the city and its residents navigate the aftermath of a high-profile case that continues to stir emotions and raise questions about community safety and law enforcement practices.