In the fall of 1983, the idea of forming and developing an organization to address specific issues of African American officers in the Illinois State Police originated in Springfield, Illinois. The steering committee, which consisted of seven Troopers (Robert Moore, Leonard Day, Andre Parker, Donald Murphy, Odell Thompson, Mary Woolery, and Ken Hall), met regularly to discuss the feasibility of creating an organization so that issues affecting them could be addressed collectively.

On November 20, 1984, the Illinois Association of Black Law Enforcement Officers (ABLE) was incorporated by the State of Illinois, and 75 African American Troopers became the charter members of the Association. ABLE is as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization which strives to ensure every possible effort is being made to provide equal opportunity for all persons to engage in gainful employment within the Illinois State Police.

ABLE works collectively with the Department toward the implementation of effective programs to achieve parity for minority officers throughout the rank structure. Furthermore, ABLE supports the continued training, technical assistance, and consideration to its members to enable them to more effectively pursue career opportunities.