GOVERNOR APPOINTS HUMAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT INSPECTOR GENERAL

SPRINGFIELD - Governor George H. Ryan today named former Illinois State Police Investigator Odell Thompson, Jr. as the Department of Human Services' new Inspector General.

As Inspector General, Thompson will have the authority to investigate allegations of adult abuse and neglect. He will focus on cases relating to clients suffering from mental illness or developmental disabilities that receive services from state-operated psychiatric hospitals, developmental centers, and community programs.

"I am proud to announce the appointment of Odell Thompson, Jr. as the Department of Human Services' new Inspector General," Governor Ryan said. "With his vast investigative experience he will be able to ensure that Illinois' adults who suffer from mental illness or developmental disabilities receive the highest level of care our state can provide."

Thompson has 25 years of police experience in Illinois with an accomplished record of leading high profile investigations. Recently, Thompson organized and supervised an investigative team of Illinois State Police Agents, Illinois Revenue Agents, and Federal Internal Revenue Agents in a comprehensive examination of Illinois' casino owners, suppliers, and personnel.

"Odell Thompson, Jr. will be a tremendous asset to the Department of Human Services team," said DHS Secretary Linda Reneé Baker. "I look forward to working with him as our new Inspector General, and will ensure that he has the tools and support he needs to do his job."

Thompson begin his law enforcement career as a Patrol Officer in Washington D.C. After joining the Illinois State Police in 1975, he was promoted to Recruiting Officer in 1982, Staff Officer to the Regional Commander in 1985, and Investigations Supervisor in 1995. Thompson's last position at the Illinois State Police was Human Resource Advisor. In this position Thompson was responsible for the organization and management of employee development programs at the Illinois State Police's Forensic Science Center in Chicago.

Thompson received his Police Administration degree from Northwestern University in 1983, his Bachelor of Arts in the field of Management from Louis University in 1988, and his Master of Arts in 1997 from the University of Illinois at Springfield.

The Inspector General directly reports to the Governor and the Secretary of the Department of Human services. The Illinois Senate must confirm Thompson's appointment.