Editor’s note: Republican Clark Mortensen announced his candidacy for Whiteside County Sheriff on Monday, August 14, 2017. That statement is reprinted below. He submitted this press release on Thursday, December 14.
“Christ tells us to serve others and show His love. I feel the outside ideas and programs I will bring to the County are what this County needs, to protect and serve the constituents of Whiteside County. Police Officers are here to secure the safety of those they are assigned to protect.”
“[This includes]
- making sure the farmers are not targeted
- put[ting] the elderly…first and foremost on our protection priorities
- reconnecting with the Community to ensure a relationship, strained by recent attacks by the National media, is repaired.”
Mortensen was born to Clark, Sr. and Darrellyn (Franks) Mortensen in July 1970. He grew up in Erie, IL, with his sister Julie (Marty) Russell and graduated from Erie High School in 1988. He receive an Associate’s Degree in Law Enforcement from Blackhawk College and served in the Illinois National Guard for six years, as a Stinger Missile Crewman.
Mortensen grew up in a family of Police Officers, including his father, a retired Illinois State Police trooper. Through those influences, he knew at a young age that his life’s passion would be to serve his community. Clark quickly pursued a career in law enforcement, nearly 26 years ago, with the goal of helping others by ensuring their safety and happiness.
He served as an Officer for the Colona Police Department from 1992 to 2000. Then he was given the opportunity and experience to work at his current job for the last 17 years as an Officer and Firefighter for the Quad City International Airport. During that time, he also served on the Colona City Council from 2001 to 2005 as an Economic Committee Member.
Not only does his experience make him an ideal candidate, but when you also consider his unrivaled passion and willingness to serve, it is clear that he is the right choice for Whiteside County. He is excited to utilize his skills and experience along with bringing a “new tone” to the Whiteside County Sheriff’s Department. Clark Mortensen is your “Homegrown Candidate,” ready to serve and protect.
Clark Mortensen has lived in the Whiteside County area most of his life and currently resides in Erie, IL, with his wife, Erie grad Kara (Shirk) Mortensen. They are the parents of six children: Brandon (22), Shaylee (21), Kayla (19), Caden (12), Brooklyn (10), and Brinley (2), and grandparents to Tinley (2.) Kara Mortensen shares the same passion for the community. She serves as a local School Nurse and Head Volleyball Coach for Erie High School.
For more information, contact Clark Mortensen at Clarkmort@yahoo.com or 309-314-3429. Visit mortensenforsheriff.com or facebook.com/mortensenforsheriff. His credentials and work experience follow.
Law Enforcement Background
2000 – Present: Quad City Airport Public Safety Department, Officer; Cross-Trained in Police and Fire
2005 – 2015: Colona Police Department, Part-Time Police Officer
2001 – 2005: Colona City Council, Alderman; Economic Committee
1993 – 2000: Colona Police Department, Full-Time, Corporal Officer
1993: Henry County Sheriff’s Department, Part-Time Patrol Deputy, Orion, IL
1993: Carbon Cliff Police Department, Full-Time Police Officer
1993: Graduated from the Illinois State Police Academy
1992 – 1993: Carbon Cliff Police Department, Auxiliary Police Officer
1990 -1996: Illinois National Guard, Stinger Missile Crewman
1990 – 1992: Black Hawk College, Associates Degree in Law Enforcement
Awards, Certifications, and Additional Experience
1996 – 2000: Colona D.A.R.E. Officer
1998: Mothers Against Drunk Drivers Award
IPMBA (International Police Mountain Biking Association) Certified
ARFF (Aircraft Rescue Firefighting) Certified
Union President of Local Airport AFSCME (American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees)
Wildlife Coordinator at Quad City International Airport
Taser Instructor at Quad City International Airport
Trained in Dignitary Protection
Field Training Officer in Colona, IL
Investigator for Colona Police Department
Vehicle Processor at Colona Police Department
Community Involvement
Deacon, Erie Christian Church
Coached numerous local Wrestling, Baseball, and Softball teams
Volunteered at the local Radio Station, showcasing area sports talent (athletes/coaches)
Volunteered at numerous Church Events.