East Central Reporter

From SWAT team to surveillance work, newly appointed Eastern Illinois University Chief of Police Kent Martin will leverage all his experience as he keeps an eye on campus activity to maintain the public peace.

 

Martin, who previously served as interim chief, took on the title permanently effective Sept. 1. Interim associate vice president for student affairs Lynette Drake made the announcement, praising Martin’s dedication.

 

“Chief Martin’s knowledge of and commitment to the university is commendable,” Drake said. “He is well-respected within the local law enforcement community and has worked collaboratively through Eastern’s police department with the city, county and state. I applaud his vision to enhance UPD’s communication, visibility and interactions with campus constituents and community partners.”

 

Martin wants to focus on outreach to Charleston residents beyond the university’s boundaries as well as on campus, bringing training opportunities related to safety and self-defense.

 

Martin earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Tennessee at Martin and a master’s in technology from EIU. Prior to his arrival in Charleston, he served in municipal law enforcement. Since arriving at EIU he has handled a variety of positions, from evidence and juvenile division tasks to training and detective work.