Jeff Myhra - Grayslake Police Chief

In this episode of "Discovering Grayslake," welcomes Jeff Myhra, the Chief of Police of Grayslake. Jeff shares his inspiring journey from childhood dreams of becoming a police officer to his current role, highlighting his dedication to community service and the challenges of balancing work and family life. The conversation delves into the evolution of Grayslake, the importance of community engagement, and practical safety advice. Jeff's passion for fostering a safe, connected community shines through, making this episode a heartfelt tribute to the values that bind Grayslake together.

Discovering Grayslake: A Deep Dive into Community Safety with Chief Jeff Myhra

Welcome back to "Discovering Grayslake," your go-to podcast for all things related to our beloved community. After a two-year hiatus, we're thrilled to bring you an insightful episode featuring Jeff Myhra, the Chief of Police of Grayslake. In this episode, we delve into Chief Myhra's journey in law enforcement, his connection to the community, and valuable tips for ensuring safety in our town. Whether you're a long-time resident or new to Grayslake, this episode offers a wealth of information to help you stay informed and engaged.

Meet Chief Jeff Myhra: A Journey from Aspiration to Leadership

Early Aspirations and Career Path

Chief Myhra's journey in law enforcement began with childhood aspirations inspired by his grandparents, immigrants from Norway. His early interest in becoming a police officer was solidified during a career day at school, where a police officer's presentation left a lasting impression. After high school, Myhra joined the military, which provided him with the opportunity to further his education through the GI Bill. He attended the College of Lake County, earning his degree while working at Menards in Fox Lake.

From Community Service Officer to Chief of Police

Myhra's career in law enforcement started with a community service officer position in Grayslake. His dedication and work ethic quickly earned him a full-time position as a police officer. Over the years, he has held various roles within the Grayslake Police Department, including investigator and sergeant. His passion for investigations and commitment to community service have been the driving forces behind his successful career.

The Evolution of Grayslake: Reflections on Community Changes

Transformations Over 26 Years

During his 26 years of service, Chief Myhra has witnessed significant changes in Grayslake. He recalls the days when local establishments like Carmine's and Pat's Pizza were prominent and praises the vision of village managers and trustees who have worked diligently to enhance the town's appeal. The landscape of Grayslake has changed dramatically, making it unrecognizable compared to what it was decades ago.

Staffing and Community Safety

The Grayslake Police Department currently has 31 designated officers, with a few part-time officers to fill in gaps. Rather than focusing solely on population numbers, the department prioritizes call volume and response times to ensure effective service to the community. This practical approach contributes to the town's financial stability, as they avoid unnecessary debt.

Common Issues and Practical Advice for Community Safety

Opportunistic Crimes and Preventive Measures

Many crimes in Grayslake are opportunistic, often stemming from residents forgetting to lock their car doors or leaving keys inside their vehicles. Chief Myhra emphasizes the importance of simple preventive measures, like locking doors, to reduce crime rates. Identity theft is another concern, particularly with the rise of online scams, which sometimes require federal intervention.

The Importance of Community Engagement

Chief Myhra believes that police work is fundamentally about serving the public and providing excellent customer service. He stresses the importance of listening to the community's needs and building trust between law enforcement and residents. The department aims to foster compliance through education rather than generating revenue through tickets, reflecting a philosophy that prioritizes community trust and cooperation.

Personal Insights and Community Connection

Balancing Work and Family Life

Chief Myhra reflects on the challenges of balancing his career with family life, especially as a father of four. He acknowledges the stress of working in major crime investigations, which often require long hours and can be emotionally taxing. Despite these challenges, he emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong work ethic and being present for his family.

Personal Interests and Hobbies

Outside of his professional life, Chief Myhra enjoys the outdoors, including hunting and fishing. He recently took up guitar lessons at the age of 45, highlighting the importance of continuous learning and personal growth. His love for the outdoors and fascination with Bigfoot add a personal touch to his professional persona, allowing the community to connect with him on a more personal level.

Practical Tips for Community Safety

Parental Guidance and Technology

Chief Myhra emphasizes the importance of parental vigilance in keeping children safe. He advises parents to stay engaged and aware of their children's activities, especially as they spend more time on their devices. Using apps like Life 360 to monitor children's whereabouts can be helpful until they are old enough to manage their own phones.

Navigating Online Transactions Safely

With the growing trend of online transactions through platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Chief Myhra advises conducting such transactions at the police department, where there is always some level of surveillance and personnel available. He encourages community members to be cautious and to trust their instincts when dealing with potential buyers or sellers.

Payment Safety Tips

For smaller purchases, Chief Myhra prefers cash, while for larger transactions, he recommends using cashier’s checks or money orders to ensure safety. He expresses caution about digital payment methods, as they can sometimes lead to complications or disputes.

Conclusion: Fostering a Safe and Engaged Community

This episode of "Discovering Grayslake" provides valuable insights into the challenges of modern parenting, the impact of technology on safety, and practical advice for community members to enhance their personal and collective security. Chief Myhra's dedication to the community, commitment to transparency, and focus on proactive policing strategies highlight the values that underpin the Grayslake Police Department.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern life, staying connected, informed, and vigilant is more important than ever. We encourage you to engage with your local officers, recognize their hard work, and perform random acts of kindness to foster a supportive and engaged community spirit.

Thank you for tuning in to "Discovering Grayslake." Subscribe to our podcast for more insights into the Grayslake community and its residents. Let's continue to make Grayslake a vibrant and safe place to live.