It’s with mixed emotions that, after 29 years in law enforcement, Iroquois County Sheriff Derek Hagen has announced he’s retiring, effective September 30. 2021.
Hagen informed the County Board Judicial Committee (Wednesday) he has an opportunity to start a new chapter in his life with a new career.

Sheriff Hagen is giving his full support to Deputy Clint Perzee, a veteran member of the department. Perzee is already an announced-candidate for Iroquois County Sheriff in the 2022 election. Hagen informs county officials that Deputy Clint Perzee is his designation of successor to the vacancy as Sheriff for the remaining 14 months of his term.

The Sheriff had already made it clear some time ago this would be his last term in office.

The 51-year-old Hagen has spent 24 of his 29 years in police work with Iroquois County, the last 11 as Sheriff. He also worked patrol with the Urbana Police Department and Champaign County Sheriff’s Department.

He said he’s called law enforcement his career and one of his life dreams. He said during this time, the Iroquois County Sheriff’s Office has been blessed with hard-working and dedicated employees who care about the citizens served and the communities we live in. Hagen adds, he thanks the citizens of Iroquois County for putting their faith in me and it’s been an honor to serve as your Sheriff the past 11 years.

Hagen said he has no doubt the Iroquois County Sheriff’s Office will continue to provide the citizens and communities with professional and capable law enforcement services.

94.1 WGFA