FAQ's

Prior to my law enforcement career, I served as the Vice President/Branch Manager of a large bank in Menomonie, Wisconsin, were I supervised approximately 20 employees.   I earned my associate’s degree in criminal justice at the Chippewa Valley Technical College in 2007 and then completed the 520- Hour Police Recruit Academy.  My law enforcement career began with Marathan City Police Department, and I have since served with Village of Elk Mound, Durand PD, and the Dunn County Sheriff’s Department.  In 2010, I accepted a full-time Deputy position with the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Department, making this county my permanent home.   Since 2015, I have served as the President of the Chippewa County Deputy Sheriffs Association, representing fellow deputies and advocating for professionalism, fairness, and strong standards within the department.   Since 2017. I have served on the Board of Directors for the Wisconsin Professional Police Association (WPPA), contributing to statewide conversations on law enforcement policies, officer support, and public safety.   In November 2018, I was selected to be the first-ever Chippewa County Courthouse Security Officer.  In this role, I built the position from the ground up, establishing a foundation that both employees of Chippewa County and the public can trust. This experience strengthened my leadership abilities and prepared me to meet the needs of this county as sheriff.   In 2023, I became a member of the Peer Support Team and now serve as the Peer Support Lead.  This role helps ensure fellow officers’ access to resources and support during challenging times.   Over the last three years, our department has faced significant challenges in leadership.  I am committed to restoring respect, professionalism, and integrity within the department and for the community.  I have dedicated my career to protecting the citizens of Chippewa County and believe that a strong department are built on strong people.

The role of the sheriff involves many responsibilities; however, I believe the most critical one in this county is leadership.  Effective leadership begins with strong accountability, professionalism, the ability to lead with creditability, and a visible presence within both the department and the community.   A key responsibility for the sheriff, as well as the department personnel, is public safety.  Public safety in Chippewa County means ensuring that the residents and their property are protected from danger and uncertainty, and that they also feel safe and secure. This is my home as well, and I am committed to keeping Chippewa County a safe place to live and raise families.

I have built my reputation on doing this job the right way and following established procedures.  Policies are in place to ensure that any complaints or disciplinary actions involving deputies are handled fairly and legally.  Since 2015, I have served as the President of the Chippewa County Deputy Sheriffs Association, which also represents deputies involved in internal investigations or disciplinary actions, ensuring they receive due process under our labor contract.    Chippewa County currently uses body-worn cameras, which are managed in accordance with county policy and are subject to public open records request.   Regarding my beliefs, I am committed to impartiality and strongly uphold in the rule of law.   Emotional intelligence is the ability to manage my own emotions effectively. Throughout my career, I have encountered a wide range of emotional challenges, as not every situation is positive. As a law enforcement officer, I must be able to process and channel those emotions appropriately, so they do not result in negative reactions or outcomes. In the role of the sheriff, emotional intelligence is the pillar for effective leadership and building trust within the community.  I strongly believe in support systems, which is why I am involved with our department Peer Team and took the role as Team Lead.  My goal is to help fellow officers access resources and support during challenging times, while also recognizing and utilizing those same resources when needed for myself.

Deputies are required to complete a specified amount of annual training each year to maintain their certifications. While the department has the authority to establish portions of its own curriculum, state law also mandates certain training requirements. I believe to keep up with the changing environment; the department must also prioritize specific training that benefits both the department and the community.   I support continued education and certifications for deputies who take the initiative to improve themselves. However, these opportunities are also guided by budget limitations and availability.   I strongly believe in support systems, which is why I am involved with our department Peer Team.  I not only support the continued use of the Peer Support Team, but also the use of local resources such as REALiving, to assist any sheriff’s office employee in need.  My goal is to select the most qualified candidates for the position and build a department that supports long-term retention.

I believe community trust is strengthened through transparency, consistency and strong leadership.   I strongly believe in engaging with the youth of our county, as they are the future leaders of our community. Officer engagement within local schools and activities with the community helps build positive relationships with students, which is essential for fostering trust, providing guidance, and strengthening the future of our community.   People have the right to engage in peaceful protest. Provided that no laws are being violated, the sheriff’s office should not intervene.   Any individual may contact the sheriff’s office at any time. If I am unavailable, they can schedule an appointment to meet with me and discuss their concerns.

The use of force is defined by county policy and is regularly reviewed by our use-of-force instructors and management. Every critical incident is unique and may require a different response.  Each situation will be handled in accordance with the needs of the officer involved.   I support a wide range of de-escalation strategies. Deputies should prioritize resolving crises peacefully whenever possible and use the least amount of force to de-escalate.

The biggest challenge I see in operating the jail is maintaining adequate staffing. Policies and procedures are established to promote the safety of both inmates and staff. Clear guidelines are also in place for screening inmates for mental health needs and addictions. Additionally, the jail has medical staff available to address inmate healthcare needs. I support alternatives to incarceration; however, we must adhere to the sentences imposed by the judge.

I believe transparency with taxpayers is essential when discussing the budget. The county provides a set budget, and we prioritize the department’s needs and public safety with that funding.  As Sheriff, I would pursue any available grants or partnerships to help offset costs and reduce the burden on local property.

I believe it is very important to build strong relationships with other agencies and work together as a team. Relationships grounded in mutual trust are essential for maintaining public safety and effective policing. I also believe it is important to have a strong, trust-based relationship with county officials and prosecutors. While disagreements will occur, established trust helps ensure those issues can be addressed and resolved constructively.

Unfortunately, mistakes can happen. I believe in full transparency and accountability, and that acknowledging errors is essential to maintaining public trust. As an elected official, there is often significant political pressure and public criticism, something I am currently experiencing as I run for Sheriff. It is important to stay focused on the “why”—the reason for taking on this role. I am committed to restoring respect, professionalism, and integrity within the department and for the community.

Over the last three years, our department has faced significant challenges in leadership.  I am committed to restoring respect, professionalism, and integrity within the department and in our service to the community.  While success is not defined by a single measure, I believe it is reflected in having a well-respected sheriff’s department that earns the trust of those it serves.  I would want to close my tenure as a leader who was fair and respected.