Happy Podcast Friday! We recently congratulated two new officers, Molly Shnowske and Savannah Reed, on their graduation from the Basic Law Enforcement Academy. These officers sat down with Captain Pauls to discuss their academy experience, why they sought a law enforcement career, and what they are looking forward to as they begin their field training. Welcome aboard!

The Wausau PD Podcast is also available on YouTube, Facebook, and other major platforms.

Back-to-back Friday Podcasts! This episode has DC Baeten joined by Lt. Luis Lopes-Serrao and city videographer, Ethan Bares, to talk about the department's use of social media and video content to connect with the community. We discussed the evolution of Wausau PD's social media presence, why we expend effort in reaching others through social media, and how original video content became a game-changer for us. We also shared some thoughts & suggestions on how other law enforcement agencies might further leverage this well-established means of connecting with their respective communities.

Finally, as Ethan prepares to exit his current role as the city Community Communication Specialist (i.e., videographer) - he is joining our department in several weeks as a sworn officer - he shared his thoughts on the value of the videographer role and the opportunities it presents.

If you or anyone you know might be interested in becoming the next Community Communication Specialist, submit an application online by June 12th, 2025: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/wausauwi

The Wausau PD Podcast is also available on YouTube, Facebook, and other major platforms.

Happy Podcast Friday!

Reflecting on a career spanning 28 years, retired patrol officer & K9 handler, Mark Kurtzhals, came back to talk about lessons learned and advice he'd share with others. We also found out what a police K9 does in retirement. *Teaser - it seems to involve a lot of sleeping.*

Officer Kurtzhals retired from law enforcement in May of last year, but his impact will remain for a long time.

The Wausau PD Podcast is also available on YouTube, Facebook, and other major platforms.