Joliet Police Chief Says Arrest Of Joliet Police Detective For Domestic Battery “Erodes The Public’s Trust”

On September 28, 2024, at 12:12 a.m., Joliet Police Officers responded  to a residence in the 1100 block of Woodiris Drive for a report of a domestic disturbance. Upon  arrival, Officers learned that a confrontation had taken place at the home involving an adult female and husband Peter Ranstead (41, Joliet), an off-duty Joliet Police Department Detective.  It is alleged that during an argument, Ranstead grabbed the victim by her shoulders and forced  her toward the doorway of a second story bedroom. It is believed Ranstead then pushed the victim out of the room, causing her to strike her head on an adjacent door frame. The victim  forced her way back into the bedroom and attempted to call 911 at which time it is believed Ranstead took the phone from her. The victim was eventually able to contact 911. Ranstead was  not at the home and was unable to be located, upon the arrival of Officers.  

Following an investigation into this case, Joliet Police Detectives obtained a Kendall County arrest warrant for Ranstead for two counts of Domestic Battery and one count of Interference with the Reporting of Domestic Violence on October 1, 2024. Ranstead turned himself this Wednesday morning shortly after 6:00 a.m. at the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office in Yorkville.  

Following this incident, Ranstead was immediately placed on administrative duty, per Joliet Police Department policy. Ranstead has since been placed on administrative leave following his  arrest.  

“The Joliet Police Department holds itself to the highest standards of integrity and  accountability. When these standards are not met, we not only compromise our legitimacy but  also erodes the public’s trust. The community expects us to lead by example, and when one of our  own fails to meet these expectations, it affects us all. Being a police officer is not just a job, it is  a calling that requires each of us to live a life without reproach. I expect my Officers to embody  the values of integrity, respect, and fairness in both their personal and professional lives. This is  critical not only to maintain the trust of the public but also to preserve the honor of wearing the  badge. When any officer fails to uphold these principles, it diminishes the hard work and dedication of all those who serve honorably. Our duty stands now to remain committed to  transparency and impartiality and ensure that justice is served.” 

– Joliet Police Chief Bill Evans 

Joliet Police Chief William Evans – file photo AlphaMedia