15-05-2025
Northwest Wisconsin Law Enforcement honors fallen police officers
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WLAX/WEUX) – It is National Police Week and a ceremony was held in Eau Claire to honor the service of fallen law enforcement officers from the region.
'Each time when one of our brothers and sisters has paid the ultimate sacrifice, we've seen the impact they've left on the community, the profession and us as their friend,' said Jake Vosters, the director of the Division of Criminal Investigations for the Wisconsin Department of Justice.
That impact could be felt in this room Wednesday morning. Officers from numerous agencies agencies remembering those killed in the line of duty since 1881.
'There is debate in our country about the role of police. That our officers should be guardians and not warriors. That is a false dichotomy. We need people who can be both,' said Chief Matt Rokus with the Eau Claire Police Department.
Recently in 2023, three officers were killed during traffic stops barely a month apart from each other. Chetek Police Chief Ron Ambrozaitis read Officer Emily Breidenbach's name and former Cameron Police Chief Adam Steffen read Officer Hunter Scheel's name. St. Croix County Sheriff's deputy Katie Leiseing was killed on May 6th, 2023.
Since that tough year on Western Wisconsin law enforcement agencies, squads have continued to support those with Chetek police, Cameron police, St. Croix County and each other.
'Your loved ones are not forgotten. They're legacy lives on in the hearts of their brothers and sisters in blue,' said Chief Kelly Bakken, with Altoona police. 'In a time where your work is more challenging than ever, your commitment continues to shine as a beacon of resilience and hope.'
Breidenbach, Scheel and Leising were all included in the national memorial in Washington D.C. as part of last year's National Police Week.
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