Batavia declares January 14 as Chief Shawn Mazza Day

City to celebrate the long-time police chief's retirement with a day honoring his leadership and service.

Author

Sam Kraft
January 12, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 4 minutes

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The City of Batavia has officially declared Tuesday, January 14, 2025, as Chief Shawn Mazza Day in honor of the retiring Police Chief’s remarkable 26 years of service to the community.

Mazza started his career in Batavia in 1999, rising through the ranks to eventually become Police Chief in 2022.

During his tenure, Chief Mazza led the Batavia Police Department with dedication, fostering initiatives that strengthened ties with residents and addressed pressing community needs.

Under Chief Mazza’s leadership, the department adopted the NAACP Illinois State Conference’s Shared Principles of Foundational Values and introduced a full-time social worker to handle crisis response situations. His efforts extended beyond the city, as he participated in mission trips to Haiti and other service-oriented projects.

During his tenure, he spearheaded a variety of community programs, such as expanding the bicycling patrol officer program and launching the Coffee with a Cop and Cones with Cops initiatives.

From the press release announcing his retirement last summer:

The Batavia Police Department handled over 30,000 calls since Mazza became chief. As call volumes increased, Mazza recognized the need for officer wellness. To that end, he initiated several measures, including involving the department in charitable organizations such as Chip in Batavia and Special Olympics, which he considers a favorite part of his job.

“Being involved in charitable events helps with officer wellness. I see the positive impact on the officers who choose to participate. The world is full of caring people,” he said. “Even in the most difficult moments, you can choose to see the light that shines through the darkness.”

Over the course of his 25 years with the department, Mazza has earned several recognitions and awards, including the Jason Kloese Memorial Brotherhood Award, Life Saving Award, Loyalty, Service, and Commitment to the Department & Community Award, Physical Fitness Award, and Police Officer of the Year. Additionally, he has received over 30 letters of commendation, recognition, and appreciation. Mazza’s professional achievements also include serving as president of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #224, being a member of the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force and completing over 1,000 hours of law enforcement training through FEMA, FBI, and other public safety organizations.

During last week’s City Council meeting, City Administrator Laura Newman and Mayor Jeffery Schielke praised Mazza’s impact, highlighting his leadership, compassion and dedication to the well-being of Batavia’s residents.

Leadership transition

Eric Blowers was sworn in as the city’s new Chief of Police during the meeting, officially assuming the role on January 14. A 20-year veteran of the department, Blowers has held positions including patrol officer, detective, sergeant, watch commander and deputy chief of administration and operations.

Detective Sergeant Gary LaBarbera has been promoted to Deputy Chief, filling Blowers’ former position. A 20-year member of the department and military veteran, LaBarbera has served in roles including juvenile detective, field training officer and sergeant.

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