In 1994, Officer William Sommer started his law enforcement career part-time with the Tonica Police Department.
In 1996, Officer Sommer began part-time with the Spring Valley Police Department and then began his full-time law enforcement career as a deputy with the Putnam County Sheriff's Department.
In June 1998, Office Sommer started full-time with the Spring Valley Police Department and in 2005 was promoted to the rank of Sergeant.
Officer Sommer was then appointed to the position of Deputy Chief of Police in January 2010 and held that position until he recently retired in December 2019.
Officer Sommer was also a lead homicide investigator, certified field training officer, and juvenile officer.
Officer Sommer graduated from the University of Illinois Police Training Institute and has attended over 1000 hours of continuing law enforcement education during his career.
Officer Sommer has been married to his wife, Amy, since June 1990 and they have two daughters.
In addition to spending time with his grandchildren, Officer Sommer enjoys flying. He is a private pilot and a member of the Illinois Valley Flying Club.
