Peoria County Sheriff Brian Asbell is pleased to announce the promotion of Douglas (Doug) Gaa to the role of Chief Deputy, effective today, March 1, 2019.
Chief Deputy Gaa has served with the Peoria County Sheriff’s Office since 1993. Chief Deputy Gaa has previously served as a Patrol Deputy, Community Police Officer, Patrol Lieutenant and most recently as an Undersheriff supervising Peoria County Courthouse security.
In his new role, Chief Deputy Gaa is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Peoria County Sheriff’s Office operations and answers directly to Sheriff Brian Asbell.
“I am extremely pleased to announce Doug Gaa’s promotion to Chief Deputy. He has done outstanding work in every position he has been in throughout the last 26 years, and I think he will smoothly transition into this new role.”
Former Chief Deputy Joseph Needham retired February 28, 2019, after 40 years, 4 months and 1 day on the job. He began at the Peoria County Sheriff’s Office on October 30, 1978.
“Chief Needham asked for a quiet farewell, which we respected,” says Sheriff Brian Asbell. “However, he will be greatly missed. His guidance over the years was invaluable, and somehow ‘thank you’ just doesn’t seem enough for his service to our community over these 40-plus years. We wish him all the best in retirement.”