Vice-President Benjamin Fenhouse Neenah, 218/340-9836
Secretary Chad Billeb Mosinee, 715/297-7958
Treasurer Jeremy Scott Merrill,715/370-0687
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
District 1
Austin Lee
Pleasant Prairie
District 2
Vacant
District 3
Tim Berg
Onalaska
District 4/5
Frank Salinsky
Muskego
District 6
Brian Gilbert
Sheboygan
District 7
Joe Johnson
Stevens Point
District 8
Patrick Pajot
Wrightstown
District 9
Kyle Strandberg
Summit
District 10
Nick Al-Moghrabi
Hayward
District 11
Dave McCue
Manitowoc
President
Peter Kraeger WLEOA President
A Bright Future Ahead for WLEOA
It is truly an honor to have been recently elected as President of the Wisconsin Law Enforcement Officers Association. I am grateful for the trust placed in me and excited for the opportunity to work alongside such a dedicated and passionate group of professionals who represent the very best of law enforcement in our state.
First, I want to recognize the heart of WLEOA, our members. From active and retired law enforcement officers to associate members, district directors and countless volunteers, this organization continues to thrive because of your commitment, involvement and belief in our mission. Your willingness to give your time, energy and leadership is what makes WLEOA strong and allows us to support one another professionally and personally.
Our district directors play a critical role in connecting members across Wisconsin, ensuring local voices are heard, and helping guide the organization forward. Likewise, our volunteers work tirelessly behind the scenes to support events, programs, and initiatives that benefit our membership and the communities we serve. WLEOA would not be what it is today without each of you.
Member Benefits and Resources
WLEOA membership offers a wide range of benefits designed to support officers and their families.
These include discounts and partnerships, scholarships, access to our campground, and support programs that assist officers in times of need. I encourage all members to visit www.WLEOA.com to explore the full list of benefits and take advantage of the resources available to you. Your membership is more than a card,it is an investment in yourself, your family, and the law enforcement profession. If you have any questions about benefits, please reach out to me or your District Director.
Supporting the Mission:
The WLEOA Gun Raffle
One of our most successful and impactful fundraising efforts continues to be the WLEOA Gun Raffle. I want to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who supports this raffle, whether by purchasing or selling tickets, or helping organize the event. The funds raised directly support the WLEOA campground, our scholarship program, the Fallen Officer Fund and Officer in Distress Fund, and youth outreach initiatives. These programs make a real difference, providing assistance, opportunity, and support when it matters most.
Looking Ahead
The future of WLEOA is bright. With continued support from our members, directors, volunteers, and partners, we’ll keep moving the organization in a positive direc-
tion. Together, we’ll strengthen our programs, expand opportunities for members, and continue honoring the service and sacrifice of law enforcement professionals across Wisconsin.
Thank you for being part of WLEOA and for all that you do. I look forward to working with you as we build on our strong foundation and continue to move forward together.
Peter Kraeger WLEOA President
Peter Kraeger
WLEOA Vice President Benjamin Fenhouse presents a check to the Appleton Legion Baseball Club.
Greetings!
Another year is behind us and I hope this finds all of you well. The Wisconsin Law Enforcement Board of Directors has changed a little bit since the last time our magazine was published. I recently moved from the District 6 representative to now vice president. I am extremely honored and proud to be part of this organization and work with an outstanding group of professionals. I am also appreciative of all the support the members of the WLEOA have given me year after year.
I want to thank Kyle Strandberg for his service and leadership as President. He will now be moving to fill the vacancy as our District 9 representative as there was a vacancy. Since moving to the Vice President position, that left District 6 with a vacancy. Brian Gilbert has filled that position and I look forward to working with him in the future as he gets acclimated to his new role.
I first met Brian at the WLEOA Campground and like me, he shares a passion and commitment to the betterment of our campground. He’s spent numerous hours dedicating his time and efforts to providing a place where families can go and relax and get away from their work life.
Gun Raffle
Again, the 30 guns in 30 days gun raffle was a major success. This year, I was extremely fortunate to win a
Vice President
Benjamin Fenhouse WLEOA Vice President
Looking Forward to a Great 2026
gun. To claim the gun, my wife and I visited Chase Outdoors in Rothschild, WI. I’ve heard from other gun winners how awesome the staff is there, and the stories are true!
From the minute you walk in, the staff is available and helpful with whatever you need. The selection they have for outdoor activities is impressive, and if you need a gun or fishing pole this is your place. Upon checking out, the employees reassured us that if we weren’t happy with anything, they’d make it right with no questions asked! I will definitely give my future business to Chase Outdoors; they do it right!
Campground Cleanup
This year at the campground we concentrated on cleaning up the grounds and restructuring areas for other activities. For instance, our volleyball court was in need of upgrades and was not being used as much as it once was. We’re in the process of leveling the area and planting grass so a new cornhole area will be able to be used by the pavilion. What could be better than some friendly competition of cornhole while you cook dinner at the pavilion?
Unfortunately, there are numerous dead ash trees that need to come down. With taking down some trees, we were left with stumps and roots. This year, we worked on grinding out several stumps and roots. Removing them is important for mow-
ing operations and protection of our equipment. We are still working on cleaning up and planting grass where we ground out the stumps.
Thank you for everyone’s patience as we continue to make the campground a fun and relaxing place for all to enjoy. Again, thank you to all of our wonderful volunteers who dedicate their time so others may enjoy the campground year after year.
Campground Appreciation
Every year at the end of the campground season, you can’t help but look at the property and see all the changes made and how much work and dedication is put in year after year to make the WLEOA Campground what it is. From mowing, woodcutting and raking, to picking up sticks, cleaning, emptying fire pits and refilling supplies, the list goes on. Our team of volunteers never give up and are always ready to put in the extra effort required to make the campground such an enjoyable place.
Sometimes a thank you doesn’t feel adequate enough for what people do. I want to take a moment to give a few shoutouts to some special people. First, a special thanks to Shannon and Cindy Brill. I’ve had gotten to know them through the years and am lucky to call them friends. They’re consistently involved with mowing and cleaning at the campground and are always
Wisconsin Law Enforcement Officers Association
36th Annual Golf Outing
Monday June 22, 2026 4 Person – 18 Hole Scramble
Team Check-in: 9:30am| Shotgun Start: 10:30 am
Cost - $75.00 per Person
Includes 18 Holes of golf w/cart, Range balls, Drink Tickets, Dinner, Raffles & Prizes
Glacier Wood Golf Course 604 Water St. Iola, WI
Register online at wleoa.com/golf/ or you can fill out the form below and mail with payment to to Tony Nardi 242181 Pit Rd Wausau, WI 54403 for additional information or questions email: tnardi17@aol.com
there to help with woodcutting. Every year Shannon is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to lifting huge logs onto the log splitter. After downing a few Mountain Dews, there’s really nothing he can’t achieve. Cindy is always there for the planning of the food and beverages and comraderie. They both always provide a fun atmosphere and a sense of togetherness at the campground while also putting in numerous hours of hard work.
Through them, I was lucky enough to be introduced to Tom and Kim Brill, who also dedicate their time and resources to the campground. A special thanks to Tom in his assistance with securing the material to upgrade our dock.
The WLEOA is also fortunate to have the assistance of Steve and Jenny Konkol. They’ve camped for numerous years at the campground and always help with whatever is needed. Steve also was able to donate new fire rings that have been a great addition for larger group fires.
Last, I’d like to thank Dan and Karon Weisensel. They helped in 2025 with mowing during the Summer. I’d been out at the campground toward the end of June and was planning on mowing before they took over in July. Mother Nature had different plans and I was rained out and unable to get back there before they arrived. The grass was long and probably needed to be cut twice in to get it down to its normal length.
When I arrived at the campground a few weeks later, I was expecting them to chase me out of there for the mess I’d left them! Instead, they greeted me with open arms. The hours and dedication they put in truly had the campground looking better than it ever has. Through the Summer they continued with daily
upkeep and I’m very grateful for all their hard work.
These were just a few instances of some of the people behind the work that goes on at the campground. Hope to see you all at the campground in 2026!
Community Donations
Each year, every director in the WLEOA gets “director’s” funds. The goal of these is to support various activities and people in the community. In 2025, I was able to support two youth organizations.
The first was the Freedom Soccer Club. One of our WLEOA members from District 6, Chris Romanowicz, was able to donate money toward the club. The money will be utilized to help with various field renovations and equipment.
The second donation from District 6 was donated to the Appleton Legion Baseball Club. While growing up in Superior, WI, I played Legion baseball and it was some of the best times of my life. My dad, an Army veteran, supports the American Legion in Appleton, and next door is a baseball field. One day while there for lunch, we were lucky to catch a Legion game. As we sat there watching, it reminded me of my youth and the fun I had playing baseball with my friends. Fast forward 25 years, I was fortunate enough to donate money towards the Legion program and Don Hawkins Field.
In 2025, all of the in-field grass was replaced on Don Hawkins Field. The money that was donated helped with the maintenance and transition of the field. It was special that I was able to give back to something that was so important to me growing up.
In conclusion, I want to wish a happy and safe 2026 to all of our WLEOA members. Please spread
the word of our organization. As stated, I am honored to be part of the WLEOA and all of the wonderful things it supports. Take care!
Benjamin Fenhouse WLEOA Vice President
2025 Golf Outing Report
We held our 35th Annual Golf Outing at Glacier Wood Golf Course in Iola on Monday, June 16. We had a beautiful day on a great golf course. This year we had 25 teams participate in the outing. That’s the most we have had since our outings before COVID. It’s great to see that we have more members and guests coming out to join us for a fun filled day on the links. While this event is designed to be a fun outing that everyone can play in regardless of skill level, we do recognize our teams that win their perspective divisions.
Our Regular (Open) Division winners was Team Shawanokasic. Our Ladies Division winner was Team Barthuly. Our Senior Division winner was Team Lamar and our Super Senior team winner was Team Mocadlo. Congratulations to all of the winners.
As always, after golf concluded we met at the restaurant for a meal
of oven baked chicken and pasta with sides. Glacier Wood’s staff is the best host we could ask for and every year prepare a great meal for our group. We concluded the event with our golf prizes and raffle.
Each year this event is possible because of the work of our volunteers. Our Secretary Chad takes the online registrations and our Treasurer Jeremy deals with all of the finances of the event. Our outing coordinators Al and Tony do all of the behind-the-scenes work and we have a full crew that takes care of the event on the day of. We could not do any of this without their work and dedication. Thank you all for what you do.
Our 2026 outing will be our 36th Annual and will take place again this year at Glacier Wood Golf Course in Iola on Monday, June 15. There is a registration flyer on page 8 with all of the info. We have worked out the kinks in
our online registration and it’s a great and convenient way to get your team signed up for the outing. Simply go to our website at www. wleoa.com and click on the “Golf Outing” tab. It will then automatically take you to the registration page.
We hope that you will join us for a fun filled day with your fellow members and guests.
2025 Campground News
by Jeremy Scott WLEOA Treasurer
Please be sure to get your campground permit for the upcoming season! Please go to the following link to get yours today: https://wleoa.com/general7#campgroundpermit.
You will be asked to provide your name, address, phone number, and email address. This will be required each year as people’s membership status can change annually. It will be a hanging style placard that you can hang from your rearview mirrow while on
site. Please be sure to have it displayed while enjoying your stay.
You will want to have one permit for each vehicle you plan on having at your campsite, including any guests you may have. Please be sure to fill out your request accordingly.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out to me at wleoatreasurer@gmail. com.
2025 Campground Woodcutting
From all of us on the WLEOA Campground Committee we would like to say a heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who helps keep our campground running each year. Also a big shout out to everyone who participated in woodcutting back in September.
Please save the date: Woodcutting 2026 will be held October 2-4.
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Our 30/30 Gun Raffle Tickets are in and ready to go. Reach out to an officer or director in your district to get yours now. You can also order tickets on -line on our website at https://www.wleoa.com . Funds raised support our important wleoa programs
2025 Gun Raffle Report
Year four of our WLEOA 30/30 Gun Raffle came to a successful conclusion at the end of November. We went through the entire month and each day we selected a winner.
For the first time, we not only gave away some high-quality firearms, but we tried the new idea of Milwaukee Tool Mondays where the prize was either a 7- or 9-piece Milwaukee Set. This new idea was very well received and the winners were excited with the new prize option.
The great news that came in the middle of our sales time this year was the change in the Department of Gaming Regulation that allow us to have “online” ticket sales. This is a huge win for our association for being able to sell tickets to our members across the state.
It is as easy as going to our website, www.wleoa.com, and clicking on the “Gun Raffle” tab. The
easy-to-follow directions make it a simple application for both our members and our staff who process the tickets.
As we have stated before, this is the only member-driven fundraiser that we do as an association. It is vital for funding our many programs that you can see are at work in this magazine. We thank all of you for your support in selling and purchasing tickets. We could not do the great things we do without you.
Last, we need to thank our staff that processes the tickets, our officers, directors and members who sell tickets, and Chase Outdoors in Rothschild, WI, for all that you do.
Our 2025 WLEOA Gun Raffle Winners
Matt Daily - Oak Creek, WI
Charles Jones - Wausau, WI
Justin Kuck - Athens, WI
Juan Camacho - Saint Francis, WI
Bethany Steber - Manitowoc, WI
Lowell Haufe - Marion, WI
Tim Peel - Athens, WI
Terry Skaar - Cameron, WI
Michael Adamczak - Lake Mills, WI
Renee Thok - Johnson Creek, WI
Dave Jackson - Menasha, WI
Jim Brunner - Green Bay, WI
Jon Wroblewski - Steven’s Point, WI
Lisa Bombinski - Neenah, WI
Brian Schuldes - Appleton , WI
David Janiszewski – St. Point, WI
Chris Fazer - Hermansville, MI
Matt Daily - Oak Creek, WI
Lori VanSchyndel - Kaukauna, WI
Ben Fenhouse - Neenah, WI
Ronald Klick - Brookfield, WI
Bethany Steber - Manitowoc, WI
Pail Olsen, Sheboygan, WI
Dennis Gitter - Neenah, WI
Landon Gonnering - Green Bay, WI
John Kiel - Solon Springs, WI
Richard Miller - Cameron, WI
Gus Schlais - Pembine, WI
Jacob Webie - Iola, WI
Andrew Harder - Appleton, WI
2025 Scholarship Report
In 2025 the WLEOA was honored to be able to award six scholarships to our association members, or their children, to help further their academic futures again this year.
We are always impressed with the achievements of those who have applied. The listed academic accomplishments are always impressive and the community involvements, volunteer work and desire to assist others is a pleasure to read.
When possible, our district directors notify the winners and meet with them to present their
scholarships in person.
Our applications are also an online process as well. All you need to do is go to our website at www.wleoa.com and click on the “Scholarship” tab. Simply fill in the application, attach a copy of your high school transcript, your ACT/SAT documents and a current photo. The process is very simple and easy to navigate.
Director Dave McCue presented scholarships to Addison Gady and Ayden Smidle in District 8. Director Nick AlMoghrabi presented scholarships to Alexis Kuffel and Wyatt Weise in District 10.
Addison Gady accepts her scholarship from District 8 Director Dave McCue.
Ayden Smidle accepts his scholarship from District 8 Director Dave McCue.
Alexis Kuffel accepts her scholarship from District 10 Director Nick Al-Moghrabi.
Wyatt Weise accepts her scholarship from District 10 Director Nick Al-Moghrabi.
Active: $20.00 or Associate: $20.00 (includes $3.00 for annual magazine} Make your check payable to the WLEOA. Or pay online at WLEOA.org.
Please mail completed application to:
Wisconsin Law Enforcement Officers Association
Chad Billeb, Secretary
7731 County Highway. II
Hatley WI 54440
Hello from District 1!
Around the State
My name is Austin Lee, and I am excited and grateful to have been voted the new District 1 board member for WLEOA.
I have been happily married to my wife, Shelley, for seven years and we have two children. We currently live in Pleasant Prairie and enjoy time with our family in Kenosha. Most of my free time is spent with my kids. Occasionally I’m still able to spend time outdoors hunting and fishing.
I am currently employed as a Police Officer for the Village of Pleasant Prairie (PPPD). I have been with PPPD since October 2024. Prior to PPPD I worked for the City of Stevens Point (SPPD)
I hope your holiday season provided the rest and time with loved ones that you deserved. I’d also like to extend a sincere thank you to those who worked through the holidays to keep our communities safe.
My name is Brian Gilbert, and I’m honored to introduce myself as the new representative for District 6, covering Fond du Lac, Sheboygan, Calumet, Winnebago, Washington, Green Lake and Ozaukee Counties. I’m in my first year serving the district, and this is a great opportunity to share a bit about my background.
I currently work for the Wisconsin Department of Corrections as a third-shift Captain at Taycheedah Correctional Institution in Fond du Lac. I have been with the State of Wisconsin for nearly 12 years, beginning my career at Kettle Moraine Correctional Institution. I serve as a firearms instructor, Veterans Committee Chair, and hold several additional roles within the department.
District 1
Austin Lee
262/496-3441
alee@leasantprairiewi.gov
as a Police Officer for 9.5 years and at UW – Stevens Point PD for 1.5 years prior to SPPD.
During my career was fortunate enough to be part of SPPD’s SWAT team for almost eight years, I was a K9 handler at SPPD for five years and have been a DRE since 2017. I have also taught multiple ARIDE classes and was an adjunct instructor at Mid-State Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids. I was introduced to WLEOA
District 6
Brian Gilber 262/470-7674
brian.e.gilbert@gmail.com
Prior to my work in corrections, I served as a full-time paramedic and firefighter for eight years in Waukesha County and later worked as a paramedic in Sheboygan County with Orange Cross and Plymouth Ambulance Services. I’m also a 14year U.S. Army veteran.
My wife of 18 years, Crystal, and I share five adult children and three grandchildren, with our fourth grandchild expected in March.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors — camping, hunting, fishing, trapping, and taking long rides on ATVs and motorcycles. I value time at the shooting range, particularly teaching others firearm safety, marksmanship,
by District 7 Director Joe Johnson while working at SPPD. After moving to Pleasant Prairie, I was very humbled when Johnson asked me if I would be willing to fill the vacancy for District 1.
I enjoyed meeting all the other Directors and Board Members at the Fall 2025 Conference and am looking forward to growing with WLEOA.
If any department in District 1 has given any awards, new hires or had any recent retirements please let me know so they can be recognized accordingly. I can easily be reached at alee@pleasantprairiewi. gov.
Austin Lee District 1 Director
hunting skills, and reloading techniques. I’m a strong advocate for veterans in our communities and, through the Veterans Committee, work to support programs across the state aimed at preventing veteran homelessness and suicide.
That said, our work in law enforcement and corrections is demanding and often requires significant time away from our families and support systems. Because of this, I encourage everyone to look out for one another and be a source of support for colleagues who may need it.
If you have an upcoming event in your area, please contact your WLEOA representative to see how we can assist. You are also welcome to contact me directly at any time with questions or concerns.
Stay safe and thank you for the important work you do every day.
Brian Gilbert Distict 6 Director
Around the State (continued)
Promoting From Within: Impacts on Recruitment, Retention, and Morale
With the world of policing the way it is, it seems every day a department is hiring a new officer, having a promotional ceremony or saying goodbye to a veteran officer, retiring after a 25–30-year career. Those retirements are often coupled with promotions, whether it be internal promotional processes or nationwide searches, promotion practices are among the most influential leadership decisions a police department can make. Whether an agency chooses to promote exclusively from within, open positions to external candidates, or use a blended approach can significantly affect recruitment, retention, and overall morale. During this article I would like to discuss both the pros and cons of promoting within.
Promoting from within offers clear advantages rooted in institutional knowledge and career department officers, but also presents challenges leaders must manage carefully to avoid unintended consequences. There are many pros to promoting within, already having institutional knowledge and continuity, it creates a positive impact on retention, boosts morale and motivation, and creates community trust and stability.
Officers promoted from within already understand the department’s culture, policies, procedures, department missions, goals, and community expectations. This familiarity allows newly promoted supervisors and leaders to transition more smoothly into their roles, reducing the learning curve and minimizing operational disruption. Continuity in leadership can be especially valuable during periods of change or critical incidents.
District 7
Joe Johnson 715/498-1097 jjohnson@stevenspoint.com
Clear internal promotional pathways give officers a reason to stay. When employees see real opportunities for career advancement, they’re more likely to invest long-term in the organization as opposed to looking elsewhere. This can reduce turnover, preserve experience, and lower operational costs associated with recruiting and training.
Internal promotions often show younger officers that hard work, dedication, and performance are recognized and rewarded. This can improve morale, foster healthy competition, and motivate officers to develop their skills, pursue training, take initiative, and really buy into the department’s missions and goals. When promotions are perceived as fair and merit-based, trust in leadership is strengthened.
Officers who have spent their careers within the same department often have established relationships with the community. Promoting these individuals can reinforce consistency in policing philosophy and community engagement, which can help maintain public trust and allow those officers to build on those relationships. Most departments in Wisconsin aren’t very big and excel in having strong community bonds. There are countless benefits to having these positive relationships to include fostering safer neighborhoods, creating more lines of communication, and having public support on tough topics.
It is equally important though that we discuss some of the cons to promoting within as there can be
some: pulling from a limited talent pool, possible favoritism or politics, could create internal friction, and it could impact the ability to get lateral transfers or outside recruitment.
Relying solely on internal candidates can restrict the pool of ideas, experiences, and leadership styles. Many departments are small and may not have the experience the city, town or village leaders are looking for in the promoted position. This can result in an organizational slump, where practices and perspectives remain unchanged even when improvement is needed. External candidates may bring innovative approaches or specialized experience that internal candidates have not yet developed.
If promotional processes aren’t transparent and objective, internal promotions can create perceptions of favoritism, bias, or internal politics. Even when decisions are justified, the appearance of unfairness can damage morale, create division, and erode trust in leadership.
While competition can be healthy, repeated internal promotions can sometimes create tension among peers. Officers passed over may feel discouraged or undervalued, which can negatively affect teamwork, productivity, and morale — especially if feedback and development opportunities are lacking.
Effects on Recruitment
Promotion practices play a significant role in how a department is perceived by potential applicants. When it emphasizes promotion from within, it can be an attractive feature for entry-level recruits who are looking for a long-term career rather than just a job. Clear advancement pathways signal organizational stability, investment in employee development, and the
Around the State
opportunity to grow professionally over time. This can be particularly appealing to younger candidates or those entering the profession with aspirations of leadership.
However, an overemphasis on internal promotion can also create unintended recruitment challenges. Experienced lateral officers or external supervisors may view the department as closed or resistant to outside perspectives. This perception can reduce the pool of qualified applicants, especially in a competitive hiring environment where agencies are vying for experienced personnel. To mitigate this, departments should communicate clearly when and why certain positions are open internally versus externally, reinforcing that advancement opportunities exist while still valuing outside experience when appropriate.
Ultimately, promotional policies should align with recruitment messaging. Departments that highlight fairness, transparency, and professional development — regardless of whether candidates are internal or external—are more likely to attract applicants who align with the agency’s values and long-term goals.
Effects on Retention
Retention is often one of the strongest arguments in favor of promoting from within. Officers who believe they have a realistic opportunity to advance are more likely to remain with the department, even during challenging periods of the profession. Internal promotion systems reward institutional loyalty and experience, helping agencies retain officers who already understand the community, department expectations, and the internal working environment.
That said, retention benefits are
closely tied to the perceived fairness of the promotion process. When officers feel advancement is based on merit, preparation, and performance, they’re more likely to remain engaged and committed. Conversely, if promotions appear arbitrary, politically influenced, or unattainable, high-performing officers may seek opportunities elsewhere, including lateral transfers to agencies with clearer or faster promotional paths. Effective retention strategies should pair internal promotion opportunities with mentorship, leadership development programs, and constructive feedback for those who are not selected. Providing officers with guidance on how to improve and prepare for future opportunities can reduce frustration and prevent disengagement or attrition.
Effects on Morale
Morale is one of the most sensitive and immediate areas affected by promotional decisions. Internal promotions can significantly boost morale when officers see colleagues advancing based on competence, leadership ability, and dedication to the department. Such outcomes reinforce the belief that effort and professionalism matter, fostering pride in the organization and confidence in leadership.
However, morale can decline rapidly if the promotional process lacks transparency or consistency. Officers who feel overlooked or unfairly evaluated may experience resentment, decreased motivation, or withdrawal from being active in their policing efforts. This effect can extend beyond individual candidates, influencing entire shifts or departments if promotions are perceived as predetermined or influenced by outside opinions. Communication is critical to
maintaining morale throughout the process. Clearly articulated criteria, standardized evaluation methods, and honest post-process feedback help officers understand decisions — even when outcomes are disappointing. Departments that take time to explain expectations and provide development pathways demonstrate respect for their personnel, which can preserve morale even in competitive promotional environments.
Leadership must also recognize that morale impacts operational effectiveness. Officers who trust the promotion system are more likely to support newly promoted supervisors, whereas skepticism toward the process can undermine authority and cohesion. By prioritizing fairness, transparency, and accountability in internal promotions, departments can protect morale and strengthen organizational unity.
Finding the Right Balance
No single promotion strategy fits every department. Many agencies find success using a variety of promotional models for certain roles or ranks. Regardless of the model used, the keys to success are transparency, consistency, and communication. By carefully weighing the pros and cons of promoting from within, leadership or decision makers within each department can create a program that supports recruitment, strengthens retention, and sustains morale, ultimately contributing to a more effective, professional, and resilient police department. Those that don’t may see some of the negative side effects mentioned previously.
Joe Johnson District 6 Director
Around the State (continued)
My name is Patrick Pajot, and I am honored to serve as the new WLEOA District 8 Director. I appreciate the confidence placed in me and look forward to representing District 8 members and supporting the mission of the Association.
I spent 25 years with the Milwaukee Police Department, where I had the opportunity to serve in a variety of roles that shaped my approach to policing and leadership. I began my career briefly in patrol and then spent eight years assigned to the Gang Squad, working as a police officer in a high-activity environment that emphasized proactive enforcement, intelligence-led policing, and strong interagency cooperation.
I then was promoted to detective and spent 13½ years in the Homicide Division, serving as both a detective and later a lieutenant. During that time, I was involved in the investigation of serious violent crimes, worked closely with prosecutors and partner agencies, and helped mentor younger investigators. Those years reinforced the importance of thorough investigations, accountability, and teamwork under pressure.
My career concluded with five years as a captain, first serving as Night Watch Commander and later finishing at District 2, where I oversaw personnel, operations, and community-focused initiatives. These leadership roles strengthened my understanding of organizational management, officer wellness, and the balance between operational demands and community trust.
Following my retirement from MPD, I continued my service in law enforcement and currently
District 8
Patrick Pajot
414/235-1567
pajman3452@yahoo.com
serve as Chief of Police for the Wrightstown Police Department, leading a small, proactive, and community-oriented agency. Having served in both large metropolitan and small department environments, I bring a practical, balanced perspective to the challenges facing our profession.
As District 8 Director, my goal is to be accessible, responsive, and supportive of our members. I look forward to listening, advocating, and working collaboratively to ensure District 8 remains strong and well represented.
Patrick Pajot District 8 Director
Around the State
Hello All! Once again, I hope your holiday season was great and you got the opportunity to spend time away from work with those who matter most. For those who were stuck working, thank you for the sacrifices you make day in and day out.
Throughout District 10 of the Wisconsin Law Enforcement Officers Association covering Ashland, Barron, Bayfield, Burnett, Chippewa, Douglas, Dunn, Eau Claire, Iron, Oneida, Polk, Price, St. Corix, Sawyer, Vilas, and Washburn Counties it has been a very busy year. It’s hard to say on top of everything happening throughout the area but I have read many articles and Facebook posts highlighting the awesome work being done by the men and women across the district.
A large part of my former law enforcement career was public relations, which is huge in our profession. I feel we are fortunate in the Northwoods and respected by most. It was great to see agencies across the district participating in events like Cops & Bobbers, Shop with a Cop, National Night Out, and so on. These are awesome events where we can connect with our youth who are our future partners or replacements. If you have an event in your area coming up reach out to me to see how we can help
If you are anything like me, you are sick of shoveling already! That said, winter has returned to the area and most of the state after a couple of years of almost nothing. While people seemed to forget how to drive in the white stuff, it has been great to see businesses thriving with the influx of people snowmobiling, cross-country ski-
District 10
Nick Al-Moghrabi 715/816-4048
nicka392@yahoo.com
ing, ice fishing, and other winter activities people get outside to enjoy. While I love snowmobiling and I get paid to ride, I am partial to getting on a lake in the middle of the summer!
For those of us with kids, we are nearly halfway through the school year. That means graduation for some will be here before we know it. If you aren’t aware, WLEOA offers scholarships to assist members and/or their children to further their education. There are six $500 scholarships awarded annually. Check out www.wleoa.com for details on how to apply and criteria. Last year, two scholarships were awarded in District 10.
Last, there are personality conflicts and other “rifts” in just about every agency across every division. Don’t forget if you are a supervisor, patrol officer, correc-
tions officer, dispatcher, whatever position you are our jobs can’t be done without each other. I’ve been just as guilty as the next in forgetting this from time to time. Look out for each other, appreciate each other, and work together for the better of the communities we serve.
Nick Al-Moghrabi District 10 Director
Around the State (continued)
Hello fellow retirees. In January 2025 I wrote a farewell letter thanking the members of WLEOA for allowing me to represent District 8 for the past five years. Little did I know, just a couple months later, the WLEOA district representing the retirees nation (D-11) became vacant and I was selected to fill the position. I am excited to represent the retirees of our organization for years to come.
I want to take this opportunity to discuss a topic that was once taboo and rarely spoken about in the law enforcement community, your mental wellbeing. As we know, retirement is a huge life adjustment, and you don’t have to go through it alone. Both new retirees as well as those who have been retired for years can find themselves feeling depressed, alone, lost, or stuck.
Let’s be honest with ourselves, law enforcement has changed each one of us and not necessarily in a good way. In a profession where the mission is to serve and protect others, saving lives, one cannot show weakness. Therefore, officers keep inside themselves the difficulties they experience from the horrors and traumas they witness every day. Most of us have relied on fellow officers to be our support system because they “get it” and “understand” what you’re going through.
What happens after retirement when we lose daily contact with coworkers we once relied upon? While some may remain in regular contact with their support system, most of us do not. You need to know times have changed and the stigma of admitting there’s a problem and reaching out for professional help is no longer looked at as a weakness. It’s okay to ask for
District 11
David
McCue
920/374-8363 mccues1993@gmail.com
help. If you’re struggling or you’d like to talk to someone, it may be time to reach out to a mental health expert. Many of these mental health professionals have specific training in dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD in law enforcement. Please remember, you’re not alone!
Enjoy your retirement by staying active physically and mentally. I encourage each of you to challenge yourself by reading a book(s), putting puzzles together, do crossword, continue your education by taking a college or online course, or join a bible study group at your church. Remain physically active by taking up activities such as golf, hiking, bird watching, fishing, or hunting. Doing these things a few times a week have been proven to improve your health and attitude.
I want to share the wisdom of an elderly man I once spoke briefly to. I was buying a fishing pole at the local sporting goods store when the man said, “I see you’re treating yourself.” I replied, “You only live once.” The man looked me in the eyes and said, “Young man, you live every day and only die once.” He was right and I never used that phrase again. You’re retired so live every day and make the best of the time you have left.
Last, a friendly reminder to those who are about to or have already retired. Upon retirement, go to the WLEOA web page at www. wleoa.com and register your retire-
ment so we can update your status. With a minimum of 10 years of membership upon retirement, your membership changes from being an active member, which requires an annual membership due to being a life member where the annual dues are waived.
