Belleville police sell T-shirts to support chief during medical treatment
Vendors at one of the busiest tents at the Rock the Blue festival in downtown Belleville on Saturday weren’t selling food or beer.
They were selling T-shirts to raise money for Police Chief Matt Eiskant, who has been working “light duty” since February while undergoing treatment for a serious medical condition.
Proceeds from T-shirt sales will help with costs not covered by health insurance, according to Detective David Sells, who was manning the tent with Master Sgt. Phil Koch.
“It’s a way to show our support,” Sells said. “Everyone loves (the chief), and everyone respects him.”
The T-shirt is black with a rendition of the Belleville Police Department patch that includes Eiskant’s name on the front and a Thin Blue Line flag with a green ribbon on the back.
Ward 6 alderman Chris Rothweiler bought two T-shirts. He said he understands some of what the chief is going through because Rothweiler also has faced serious health issues this spring.
“For me, things are going OK,” Rothweiler said. “I’m doing good. But I want to show my support (for Eiskant).”
Backing first responders
The Rock the Blue festival was organized by Copper Fire restaurant and bar as a fundraiser for The Backstoppers program to benefit Belleville police and other first responders.
This is the second year for the street festival. Last year, it raised about $20,000 for The Backstoppers to benefit Fairview Heights first responders, including police officer Molly Muennich, who was recovering from being shot in the face in the line of duty.
“We wouldn’t be here without police keeping us safe,” said Renae Eichholz, co-owner of Copper Fire. “They don’t get the recognition they deserve. I have great appreciation for them, and I want to give them that recognition and a great big thank you.”
Rothweiler said Belleville is lucky to have a full-time paid fire department and an “excellent” police department.
Funds raised from the T-shirt sales are earmarked for Eiskant. The T-shirts cost $25 each. After the festival, they can be purchased online for about a week by using a QR code on the flyer.
People in line at the tent on Saturday included Kevin Knowles, 61, of Belleville, who lives across the street from Eiskant’s parents. Customer Mike Buettner, 68, of Belleville, said he bought a T-shirt to show his support for Eiskant, who he has known for years.
Marysol Peiffer, 23, of Belleville, doesn’t know the chief, but she still bought a T-shirt.
“I feel like I’m supporting a good cause,” she said. “Police help protect us. I went to Belleville East, and we had a school resource officer, and I just think they’re good people.”
Stepped down in February
Eiskant announced in February that he would be temporarily stepping down as police chief to undergo treatment. Assistant Police Chief Mark Heffernan took over his duties as acting chief.
“I have a serious medical condition that is being treated by physicians, but I’m very confident that it will be cured,” Eiskant said at the time.
He couldn’t be reached for comment Saturday.
In February, Eiskant estimated that he would be finished with treatment and back to regular duty in two or three months.
“My No. 1 goal right now is to get healthy,” he said.
Belleville City Council appointed Eiskant as police chief in 2022 on the recommendation of former Mayor Patty Gregory. He previously served as assistant chief under former Police Chief Bill Clay, who now is the city’s human resources director.
The Rock the Blue festival featured live blues bands, food trucks, bounce houses and other activities on two blocks of East Main Street closed to vehicular traffic. Eichholz said it was made possible with the help of about 35 volunteers, as well as generous sponsors.
Belleville Mayor Jenny Gain Meyer took the stage to speak briefly, wearing one of the Eiskant T-shirts. She asked the crowd to keep the chief in their thoughts and to value all first responders.
“We are deeply grateful for their courage, their sacrifice and everything they do for our community,” she said.
This story was originally published June 7, 2026 at 5:30 AM.
