Protective Services Unit – ISP – Chicago, IL

Illinois State Police: Protective Services Unit

Guardian of State Government

The Illinois State Police (ISP) Protective Services Unit (PSU) is a specialized command within the Division of Patrol responsible for the safety and security of the State of Illinois’ most critical assets in Chicago. While the unit maintains a presence at the Michael A. Bilandic Building and other state properties, its mission is broad and vital: ensuring a safe environment for the operation of state government. The PSU provides comprehensive law enforcement and security services for the Michael A. Bilandic Building (160 N LaSalle) and the 555 West Monroe Building, which houses the Office of the Governor and other constitutional officers. The unit acts as the primary police force for these facilities, blending traditional law enforcement duties with specialized security protocols.

24/7 Security Operations

The Protective Services Unit operates around the clock, 365 days a year. At its core are the Security Operations Centers (SOC), located within the state buildings, which serve as the nerve center for monitoring and response. Personnel in these centers actively monitor sophisticated camera systems, radio traffic, alarm panels, and access control systems. This continuous surveillance allows the unit to detect and respond to security breaches, medical emergencies, or suspicious activities in real-time. The unit works closely with the Supreme Court Marshal, who provides security for the judicial floors of the Bilandic Building, ensuring a layered and coordinated defense of the state’s judicial and executive branches.

Executive Protection and Patrol

Beyond building security, the PSU is integral to the protection of state officials. The unit is staffed by sworn ISP Troopers, who are responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, as well as Security Guards and officers. These personnel are trained to handle a wide range of scenarios, from managing peaceful protests and public demonstrations to neutralizing immediate threats. Their jurisdiction extends to the immediate vicinity of state properties, where they conduct patrols to deter crime and ensure the safety of state employees and visitors. The unit’s officers are also a key component of the state’s emergency response infrastructure in downtown Chicago.

Transition and Modernization

Historically headquartered at the James R. Thompson Center, the Protective Services Unit has successfully transitioned its operations following the state’s sale of that facility. The unit now focuses its resources on the active state government hubs at 160 North LaSalle and 555 West Monroe. This strategic shift reflects the modernization of Illinois’ state real estate portfolio. Visitors to these buildings will encounter PSU personnel at security checkpoints, where they conduct screening procedures similar to those at airports, including the use of magnetometers and x-ray machines for bags. The unit’s professionalism ensures that government business can proceed without interruption or fear.

• Building Security: Protecting 160 N LaSalle and 555 W Monroe.
• Surveillance: 24/7 monitoring of cameras and alarms.
• Access Control: Managing entry for thousands of employees and visitors.
• Executive Protection: Safeguarding the Governor and state officials.
• Emergency Response: Immediate reaction to medical and security incidents.