Chief Flynn Awards Officers for Bravery and Meritorious Service
Milwaukee Police Department
Office of Media and Communications
Nov 18 - Chief Edward A. Flynn will award 47 members of the Milwaukee Police Department with awards for bravery or meritorious service tonight at the Milwaukee Police Academy. The ceremony will begin at 7 p.m. The following are summaries of the brave acts by the men and women receiving awards.
MEDAL OF HONOR AND PURPLE VALOR
POLICE OFFICER VIDAL A. COLON
On April 11, 2009, Officer Colon and other officers responded to the report of a subject with a gun in the area of the 1300 block of South 36th Street. The subject was initially in a vehicle in which he briefly attempted to elude officers. The suspect exited the vehicle and fled on foot through the yards. Officer Colon and his partner chased the suspect on foot. Officer Colon followed the suspect to the rear yard of the 1200 block of South 36th Street, gaining ground in the pursuit. The suspect ran into the side of a house, which caused him to fall to the ground. The suspect displayed his handgun, ignored Officer Colon’s order to drop his weapon, and began firing rapidly at Officer Colon from a distance of less than 15 feet away. Officer Colon felt the first bullet strike him as he returned fire in an attempt to cease the suspect’s actions. Officer Colon continued taking fire and heroically returned gunfire despite having been shot numerous times. He continued in the gunfight until the suspect’s injuries ceased his actions. During the gun battle, Officer Colon received three entrance wounds and one exit wound. Two of the bullets are still lodged in his abdomen near his spine.
Officer Colon demonstrated exceptional courage by returning fire even after he had been seriously wounded. He also was able to safely direct other responding officers to the suspect’s whereabouts upon their arrival. Officer Colon exhibited bravery and valor in the apprehension of a dangerous suspect.
PURPLE VALORS
SERGEANT DANIEL W. GLICK
On April 18, 2001, then, Police Officer Glick assigned to the Fourth District, arrested an individual on an out of state warrant. The subject had been handcuffed and shackled due to his attempts to maneuver the handcuffs to the front of his body. The patrol wagon conveyed him to the Criminal Justice Facility for processing. Upon his arrival, Sergeant Glick secured his weapon, as is normal protocol. Upon opening the side sliding door on the patrol wagon, Sergeant Glick noticed that the subject had again moved his hands to the front of his body and had his hands covered with a jacket.
The suspect thrust his hands toward Sergeant Glick shooting him in the head. The first shot struck Sergeant Glick in the forehead knocking him to the ground. Fearing for his safety and the safety of the other officers present, Sergeant Glick rose to his feet and engaged the subject with this hands in an attempt to disarm the subject. The subject fired once again striking Sergeant Glick in the right hand, causing him to disengage from the battle. A third round was fired striking Sergeant Glick in the left shoulder underneath his ballistic armor.
As Sergeant Glick disengaged, he shouted warnings to his fellow officers that he was shot. Shots continued to ring out as Sergeant Glick attempted to retrieve his duty weapon. Other officers had managed to retrieve their duty weapons and were exchanging gunfire with the subject. The subject’s weapon malfunctioned, and he then surrendered without injury.
POLICE OFFICER JAMES A. JEKANOSKI
On September 30, 2009, Officer Jekanoski and members of the Tactical Enforcement Unit were executing a high-risk search warrant at a residence located in the 3200 block of North 12th Street. The focus of the warrant was to locate firearms and narcotics. Officer Jekanoski’s primary assignment was to breach the interior door during the execution of this warrant. Two other officers were assigned to cover Officer Jekanoski, and a fourth officer was assigned as the shield officer.
Members of the unit deployed a noise flash diversion through a side window of the residence, simultaneous to the exterior porch door being breached. Members of the entry team announced their identity and that a search warrant was being executed. After the exterior door had been breached by the assigned officer, Officer Jekanoski and his partners moved into position. Officer Jekanoski began hitting the interior door with the sledgehammer when one gunshot was fired through the door.
The bullet struck Officer Jekanoski in the left triceps area, passed through his arm narrowly missing his elbow and other major arteries. The bullet exited out of his biceps. His partners immediately reacted, and were in the process of moving Officer Jekanoski to safety, when movement was detected through the window in the doorway. One officer fired four shots into the center of the doorway to allow for his partner to remove Officer Jekanoski to safety. The officers were able to extract all of the individuals within the residence without any further shots being fired or without further incident. Officer Jekanoski knew the dangerous nature of the warrant, and the serious felonies that the individuals within the residence may be responsible for. He carried out his assignment professionally and diligently.
POLICE OFFICER GRAHAM M. KUNISCH
On June 9, 2009, Officer Kunisch and his partner were assigned to monitor the student dismissal at Bradley Tech High School located at 700 South 4th Street. While patrolling in the area, the officers observed a subject riding a bicycle on the sidewalk. The officers approached the subject to conduct a field interview.
During the course of the field interview, the suspect produced a firearm and shot Officer Kunisch in the left eye, shoulder and hand.
The suspect was last observed discarding his jacket in the 200 block of West Walker and fled on foot southbound on South Third Street. The suspect was subsequently apprehended and charged with two counts of attempted first-degree intentional homicide with use of a deadly weapon.
This award was initially presented to Officer Kunisch at the hospital on June 11, 2009. The Department wanted to publicly recognize Officer Kunisch at this ceremony in the presence of his family, friends, and colleagues.
POLICE OFFICER DEXTER L. LOVE
On February 4, 2009, Officer Love and his partner were monitoring a basketball game at Custer High School. While monitoring the game, Officer Love observed a fight explode on the gym floor. As he and his partner approached the group to intercede, several other fights erupted on the gym floor. Officer Love attempted to break up the fight by restraining one of the subjects involved. As several of the combatants were being handcuffed, one subject managed to get a hand free from the cuff and began assaulting another handcuffed student. Officer Love decentralized the assailant and prevented further injury to the student.
Upon decentralizing the subject, Officer Love struck his head on the gym floor and sustained an injury to his left eye. Officer Love maintained control of the subject with the assistance of his partner despite his injury. Upon later examination by medical experts, Officer Love was found to have a severely damaged retina and underwent surgery to repair the damage. The doctors were unable to repair the damage, which resulted in permanent and complete loss of the sight in his left eye.
POLICE OFFICER BRYAN J. NORBERG
On June 9, 2009, Officer Norberg and his partner were assigned to monitor the student dismissal at Bradley Tech High School located at 700 South 4th Street. While patrolling in the area, the officers observed a subject riding a bicycle on the sidewalk. The officers approached the subject to conduct a field interview.
During the course of the field interview, the suspect produced a firearm and shot Officer Norberg in the jaw and shoulder.
The suspect was last observed discarding his jacket in the 200 block of West Walker and fled on foot southbound on South Third Street. The suspect was subsequently apprehended and charged with two counts of attempted first-degree intentional homicide with use of a deadly weapon.
This award was initially presented to Officer Norberg at his home on June 12, 2009. The Department wanted to publicly recognize Officer Norberg at this ceremony in the presence of his family, friends, and colleagues.
MEDAL OF VALOR-RESCUE
POLICE OFFICER JASON H. SCHNEIDER
POLICE OFFICER DALE R. STASZEWSKI
On February 12, 2009, Officers Schneider and Staszewski were conducting a traffic stop in the 1700 block of West Burnham, when a citizen flagged them down and made them aware of an active fire in a residence located at South 20th and West Burnham. The officers arrived on the scene and observed the southwest corner of the residence engulfed in flames. They then drove the squad car to the front of the duplex and activated the emergency lights and siren in an attempt to gain the attention of the residents, with negative results. The officers hit and kicked the front door with no response from the residents.
Officers Schneider and Staszewski went to the back door and began to pound and kick the door in an attempt to gain a response from the residents. Ultimately, the officers forced entry to the rear door. Officers Schneider and Staszewski entered the burning building and escorted ten citizens from the burning premise, ranging in age from 3 to 40 years old. They ascended the stairs to the second floor of the duplex and safely removed citizens from the upstairs. Emergency, temporary shelter was summoned to the scene to keep the displaced residents warm due to the cold temperatures.
Officer Schneider later needed to seek medical treatment for tightness to his chest determined to be caused by smoke inhalation.
LIFESAVING
LIEUTENANT OF POLICE MARK J. WROBLEWSKI
On July 19, 2009, Lieutenant of Police Wroblewski was off duty and in his backyard when he noticed dark smoke in the sky that appeared to be coming from the area of Layton Avenue. Fearing that there may be a fire nearby, he grabbed his cell phone and keys and drove to the smoky area in his personal vehicle. Lt. Wroblewski observed a Chevy Blazer in the road in the 2200 block of West Layton Avenue flipped over onto the driver’s side, engulfed in flames.
Lt. Wroblewski parked his vehicle, grabbed two fire extinguishers from the rear of his vehicle, and ran toward the fiery crash. At that time, he observed several citizens break the windshield from the vehicle and heard people yelling that there was a baby trapped inside the vehicle. Lieutenant Wroblewski approached the burning vehicle, without regard for his own personal safety, and activated a fire extinguisher through the windshield in an attempt to extinguish the fire surrounding the child. Lieutenant Wroblewski grabbed his second fire extinguisher and began to spray it in the open passenger’s, side rear window in an attempt to abate the flames. When that extinguisher was empty, he grabbed a third extinguisher from a citizen and, in a final effort, doused the flames, which were engulfing the vehicle and the child inside. Citizens doused the area with water, and the flames were controlled enough that an off-duty firefighter was able to enter the vehicle through the broken windshield and retrieve the boy that had been trapped in the vehicle. Lt. Wroblewski did suffer from minor burns to his arms as well as smoke inhalation.
SERGEANT DELMAR E. WILLIAMS
On July 4, 2009, Sergeant Williams was attending a fireworks display in Kletzsch Park, located in the City of Glendale. A citizen also attending the festivities suddenly collapsed from a heart attack. Sergeant Williams immediately rendered aid and performed cardio pulmonary resuscitation with the assistance of an off duty firefighter from the North Shore area. Due to the quick and selfless actions of Sergeant Williams, the citizen was transported to a local hospital with a pulse and is reported to be doing well.
POLICE OFFICER DAVID D. BUBLITZ
On June 1, 2009, squads responded to the 2800 block of North 9th Street for a fight complaint. Upon quelling the disorder, the numerous officers that had responded to the scene had begun to return to their respective squad cars. As several officers passed the address in the 2800 block of North 9th, a loud thump was heard emanating from the porch. Officer Bublitz and other officers responded to the porch to investigate, and located a female resident that had collapsed and was unconscious. Medical attention was immediately summoned by radio.
Officer Bublitz and the other officers were informed that the female had a history of diabetes and heart problems. One officer determined the female had no pulse and administered rescue breaths. Officer Bublitz began chest compressions. The victim was then moved to a nearby area to allow for more room to administer cardio pulmonary resuscitation. Officer Bublitz ran to the squad to obtain the rescue-breathing mask. Another officer administered rescue breathing while another officer monitored vital signs. From these efforts, the female began to breathe on her own and she was positioned on her side in an attempt to allow her to breathe easier. The Fire Department arrived on the scene six minutes later and stabilized the patient for transportation. Subsequent medical evaluation revealed that the female had suffered a heart attack.
POLICE OFFICER MICHAEL T. DRISCOLL
On June 1, 2009, squads responded to the 2800 block of North 9th Street for a fight complaint. Upon quelling the disorder, the numerous officers that had responded to the scene had begun to return to their respective squad cars. As several officers passed the address in the 2800 block of North 9th, a loud thump was heard emanating from the porch. Officer Driscoll and other officers responded to the porch to investigate, and located a female resident that had collapsed and was unconscious. Medical attention was immediately summoned by radio.
Officer Driscoll and the other officers were informed that the female had a history of diabetes and heart problems. One officer determined the female had no pulse and administered rescue breaths. Another officer began chest compressions. The victim was then moved to a nearby area to allow for more room to administer cardio pulmonary resuscitation. An officer ran to the squad to obtain the rescue-breathing mask. Officer Driscoll administered rescue breathing while another officer monitored vital signs. From these efforts, the female began to breathe on her own and she was positioned on her side in an attempt to allow her to breathe easier. The Fire Department arrived on the scene six minutes later and stabilized the patient for transportation. Subsequent medical evaluation revealed that the female had suffered a heart attack.
POLICE OFFICER LORI M. KOWALEFSKI
On June 1, 2009, squads responded to the 2800 block of North 9th Street for a fight complaint. Upon quelling the disorder, the numerous officers that had responded to the scene had begun to return to their respective squad cars. As several officers passed the address in the 2800 block of North 9th, a loud thump was heard emanating from the porch. Officer Kowalefski and other officers responded to the porch to investigate, and located a female resident that had collapsed and was unconscious. Medical attention was immediately summoned by radio.
Officer Kowalefski and the other officers were informed that the female had a history of diabetes and heart problems. One officer determined the female had no pulse and administered rescue breaths. Another officer began chest compressions. The victim was then moved to a nearby area to allow for more room to administer cardio pulmonary resuscitation. An officer ran to the squad to obtain the rescue-breathing mask. Another officer administered rescue breathing while Officer Kowalefski monitored vital signs. From these efforts, the female began to breathe on her own and she was positioned on her side in an attempt to allow her to breathe easier. The Fire Department arrived on the scene six minutes later and stabilized the patient for transportation. Subsequent medical evaluation revealed that the female had suffered a heart attack.
POLICE OFFICER ANDREW J. MOLINA
On March 20, 2009, Officer Molina was off duty and leaving his residence to report for duty at the Sixth District. While enroute in the 3600 block of South Taylor Court, he observed a male walking his dog, but then observed him suddenly go limp and fall to the ground. Officer Molina approached the subject and determined that he was pulse less and not breathing. Officer Molina summoned medical assistance. A citizen observer approached and informed Officer Molina she was a registered nurse. Officer Molina and the citizen initiated cardio pulmonary resuscitation, taking turns with chest compressions. The male continued to be unresponsive and Officer Molina administered rescue breaths. The subject coughed and was placed on his side to clear his airway. The subject remained pulse less and not breathing so they continued with cardio pulmonary resuscitation until medical personnel arrived on the scene. The subject was subsequently revived at the hospital. Officer Molina’s quick thinking, heroic actions, and determination, prevented the loss of life.
POLICE OFFICER ZACHARY E. THOMS
On June 1, 2009, squads responded to the 2800 block of North 9th Street for a fight complaint. Upon quelling the disorder, the numerous officers that had responded to the scene had begun to return to their respective squad cars. As several officers passed the address in the 2800 block of North 9th, a loud thump was heard emanating from the porch. Officer Thoms and other officers responded to the porch to investigate, and located a female resident that had collapsed and was unconscious. Medical attention was immediately summoned by radio.
Officer Thoms and the other officers were informed that the female had a history of diabetes and heart problems. Officer Thoms determined the female had no pulse and administered rescue breaths without a protective mask. Another officer began chest compressions. The victim was then moved to a nearby area to allow for more room to administer cardio pulmonary resuscitation. An officer ran to the squad to obtain the rescue-breathing mask. Officers administered rescue breathing and monitored vital signs. From these efforts, the female began to breathe on her own and she was positioned on her side in an attempt to allow her to breathe easier. The Fire Department arrived on the scene six minutes later and stabilized the patient for transportation. Subsequent medical evaluation revealed that the female had suffered a heart attack. Officer Thoms demonstrated teamwork, and through his quick actions, saved the life of the victim.
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE
LIEUTENANT OF POLICE CARIANNE YERKES
During the last four years, Lieutenant Yerkes has pioneered the conception and implementation of the department’s Crisis Intervention Team (CIT). In March 2005, Lieutenant Yerkes attended an intensive training course in Memphis regarding the development of a crisis intervention team. Additionally, she attended a comprehensive course sponsored by the Appleton Police Department. Lieutenant Yerkes has collaborated with key individuals from the Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Division, Aurora Health Care, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness to develop an understanding of the needs of individuals in crisis.
Lieutenant Yerkes has served as an integral member of a team that conceptualized and implemented the department’s own training course. Since the implementation of the CIT program, over 200 department members have received this specialized training.
In 2008, Lieutenant Yerkes was appointed as the coordinator of the department’s Crisis Intervention Team. As the coordinator, she serves as the department liaison to mental health professionals, community resource organizations, city agencies, and consumers. She also recruits, instructs, and reviews all documentation related to crisis intervention services.
Lieutenant Yerkes’ outstanding and exceptional performance developing and supporting this program has enhanced the abilities of many members of the department.
POLICE OFFICER CHAD E. BOYACK
Over the last year, Officer Boyack and his partner have conducted dozens of self-initiated investigations resulting in the recovery of over 50 firearms. In one two week period, they recovered 13 separate handguns and made 13 arrests associated with the firearms. The arrests resulted in charges ranging from carrying a concealed weapon, felon in possession of a firearm, armed robbery and homicide. Officer Boyack has received at least seven letters of commendation from the Chief praising his job performance.
Officer Boyack possesses knowledge and skill in his work performance, which he recognizes is his personal responsibility to share with his peers in an effort to develop their skill sets. Officer Boyack has also participated in training videos on weapons recovery, which has helped educate his fellow officers. Officer Boyack is motivated and highly skilled. His job performance exemplifies the goals and objectives of this department.
POLICE OFFICER NATHAN H. FAGER
Over the last year, Officer Fager and his partner have conducted dozens of self-initiated investigations resulting in the recovery of over 50 firearms. In one two week period, they recovered 13 separate handguns and made 13 arrests associated with the firearms. The arrests resulted in charges ranging from carrying a concealed weapon, felon in possession of a firearm, armed robbery, and homicide. Officer Fager has received at least seven letters of commendation from the Chief praising his job performance.
Officer Fager possesses knowledge and skill in his work performance, which he recognizes is his personal responsibility to share with his peers in an effort to develop their skill sets. Officer Fager has also participated in training videos on weapons recovery, which has helped educate his fellow officers.
Officer Fager is motivated and highly skilled. His job performance exemplifies the goals and objectives of this department.
POLICE OFFICER MARK T. KAPUSTA
Officer Kapusta was selected to serve as the project manager for the theft from auto offenses that had been occurring within District One. He began by conducting extensive crime analysis, reviewed reference materials, and contacted other departments to learn best practices. Officer Kapusta created a database of all known theft from auto suspects that included photos, background information, and a list of convictions. He then created and published a poster that featured photos and information on the suspects from his database.
During his focused evaluation, Officer Kapusta became aware of charging inconsistencies of these cases. In some circumstances, charges were not being issued due to the low level nature of the crime, even though there was evidence and/or a confession. He worked with community prosecutors and drafted a statement that would now appear in each theft report to clearly outline the magnitude of the thefts. This strategy has proven to be successful and clearly conveys the seriousness of the problem to the reviewing assistant district attorney.
Officer Kapusta also obtained “geographical restrictions” imposed on certain theft suspects as a condition of bail, prohibiting them from frequenting areas where they previously committed crimes. Officer Kapusta’s identification and tracking of known suspects allowed him the opportunity to conduct personal, professional visits to the residences of individuals previously convicted of theft from auto offenses, alerting them that the department is focused on preventing and solving these types of crimes. Officer Kapsuta’s innovativeness and dedication exemplifies the mission statement of the Milwaukee Police Department.
POLICE OFFICER RICHARD K. LITWIN
On October 21, 2009, an armed robbery occurred in the 3300 block of North 35th Street. The suspect vehicle and license plate were obtained at the time of the offense. Officer Litwin and his partner conducted follow-up, and obtained information from an informant on the location of the vehicle. A tactical situation was initiated. Three subjects surrendered and were arrested. Also recovered was a .40 caliber handgun and the clothing worn by the suspects at the time of the offense.
On October 17, 2009, Officer Litwin and his partner were conducting follow-up on a vehicle used in a robbery in the 5900 block of West Hampton Avenue. The victim had provided a vehicle description. Officer Litwin observed the vehicle traveling in the 3100 block of North 11th Street. A traffic stop was conducted, and the driver and passengers were wearing the same clothing as described by the victim in the robbery. One of the females was in possession of a cell phone, which revealed that she called the victim and “set him up” for the robbery.
On October 14, 2009, an armed robbery offense occurred in the 2700 block of North 48th Street. Officer Litwin and his partner began saturating the area. Other squads located the suspect, who fled on foot. Officer Litwin and his partner assisted in coordinating containment of the area, and the suspect was apprehended. Officer Litwin searched the foot chase path and located the .25 caliber loaded handgun.
On August 26, 2009, an armed robbery occurred in the 2300 block of West Fond du Lac Avenue, involving a tow truck driver. Officer Litwin conducted follow-up on the surveillance video, and an informant contacted the Department and identified two brothers as the perpetrators of this robbery. Upon reviewing the reports, the officers recalled that one of the brothers identified himself as a victim in the robbery just the day before. Also, the other brother came to the scene and picked up his brother. Through additional investigation, the brothers were identified as the perpetrators in this offense, and they were apprehended on September 11, 2009, in the 3100 block of South 20th Street. A third suspect was later identified and charged.
Later on September 11, 2009, upon concluding the arrest of the brothers for the armed robbery of the tow driver, Officer Litwin and his partner assisted other officers in a Recklessly Endangering Safety arrest in the 3900 block of West Galena.
An armed robbery occurred on August 25, 2009, in the 2300 block of West Wisconsin Avenue. Officer Litwin and his partner obtained photos recovered from a surveillance video of a vehicle used in the robbery offense. They searched the Third District, and located the unoccupied Hyundai vehicle used in this offense. Surveillance was initiated on the vehicle. An actor returned to the vehicle, and Officer Litwin conducted a traffic stop. The driver gave consent to search the vehicle, and a wig from the robbery offense was located. This subject was arrested as a co-actor in the robbery offense.
On July 7, 2009, an armed robbery occurred in the 300 block of North 44th Street, 3800 block of West Wisconsin, and the 100 block of North 44th Street. Armed suspects approached all of the victims, and struck two of the victims in the face during the robbery. Officer Litwin and his partner obtained surveillance video from a nearby business, which depicted the three suspects. While checking in the area on July 9, 2009, a subject was stopped for a field interview. This subject was in possession of a watch belonging to one of the robbery victims. The subject was subsequently arrested and charged with three robberies and later identified two co-actors.
Similar type incidents involving Officer Litwin have occurred throughout the year. Officer Litwin has been instrumental in the investigation and apprehension of numerous criminals, distinguishing him above other members of the same rank and position.
POLICE OFFICER MICHAEL A. PEREZ
As part of the reorganization of the Criminal Investigation Bureau in 2009, the duties and responsibilities associated with the gun desk were transferred to Officer Perez in the Organized Crime Division.
Prior to Officer Perez handing these duties, there was no process in place for the department to file an objection with the court on the return of the firearm. The claimant would file a court worksheet by answering a set of required questions, and the claimant was required to provide a copy of the worksheet to the gun desk. The claimant would then petition the court for the return of the firearm. Denials were very rare.
Officer Perez recognized that often times these claimants were deceitful in answering the questions. Sometimes the questions were not fully answered or not answered at all. Officer Perez noted that in many cases, claimants had been arrested while in possession of drugs or admitted in their interviews that they were users of illegal drugs. The worksheet also asks the question, if the gun had been used in the commission of a crime, which the claimants mostly always answer in the negative. Officer Perez noted that many of these individuals had been arrested for crimes committed with a gun, but not charged in the district attorney’s office, or had been arrested for carrying a concealed weapon, which is a crime. Such individuals frequently petition for the return of their guns. Officer Perez has noted other inconsistencies with questions answered by claimants. This evaluation process has even led to the identification of potential straw purchasers of firearms. In Officer Perez’s assessment, many petitions for return of firearms were being granted, when in fact, he believed there were proper grounds for denial.
Officer Perez developed a solution to his problem by creating an evaluation and objection process. This process ensures that a detailed evaluation of the circumstance leading up to the gun seizure is complete, and that, if it is determined that the firearm in question should not be returned to the claimant, a written objection letter is then prepared for submission to the court.
Officer Perez personally prepares a case file for each petition for the return of a firearm. He conducts an in-depth evaluation of the circumstances involving the seizure. His evaluation includes reviewing all police reports and supporting documents for each instance in which a firearm was seized by the department. He also gathers background information on the claimant, including criminal record and statement made at the time of arrest, if applicable. After completing the evaluation, he makes a determination as to whether an objection should be filed. Officer Perez developed forms for the court objection and a letter notifying the claimant.
Feedback on this evaluation and objection process has been positive both from the District Attorney’s office and the courts. The objection letter arms the judge making the decision with information that was not readily available or included in the court paperwork in the past. Officer Perez has submitted 30 objection letters with a 100% success rate. He has recently submitted 14 additional letters, which are pending.
Officer Perez is responsible for all E-Trace and NIBIN (National Integrated Ballistics Information Network) submissions for the department. When he took over, there was a two-year backlog on NIBIN submissions, and a significant E-Trace backlog. He has worked hard to bring the department current in these submissions. Officer Perez has also worked out an agreement with the State Crime Laboratory on NIBINS submissions, which allows for the department to submit a certain number of casings and firearms each week to prevent overwhelming the crime lab. Through Officer Perez’s dedication, he has made a significant and distinguished contribution to the goal of reducing crime in the City of Milwaukee.
POLICE OFFICER GARY L. POST
For more than one year, Officer Post has displayed unusual responsibility with exceptional energy that exemplifies the mission statement of the Department. His keen abilities to obtain confessions during questioning have earned him the nickname of “the closer” by his peers.
On January 23, 2009, the owner of a coffee shop in the 4500 block of West Lisbon Avenue was the victim of an armed and masked robbery and was shot with a .32 caliber handgun. Officer Post and his partner were assigned to conduct follow-up on burglary investigations within the Third District. Officer Post conducted follow-up in the 2100 block of North 45th Street, where he observed a blood trail entering the duplex and discovered .22 and .32 caliber casings near the back door. Fearing for the safety of a potential shooting victim, Officer Post and his partner conducted an investigation, which led them to a consent search of a residence. No weapons or injured individuals were found, but evidence of drug activity was detected. On February 5, Officer Post and his partner were again in the 2100 block of North 45th Street and were allowed entry into the residence. The subjects found in the residence were wanted on warrants and were in possession of two semi-automatic pistols. All subjects were arrested and through interview, Officer Post was able to obtain the identity of two additional actors. These subjects were located, questioned, and were implicated with others in the burglaries and other gun offenses. One of the subjects also informed Officer Post that the blood he found was that of a co-conspirator that had accidentally shot himself in the foot with a .22 caliber rifle. Officer Post received information that a subject was bragging that he robbed the coffee shop and allegedly shot a person. In the meantime, Officer Post was dispatched to another robbery and viewed video making note of the clothing worn by the perpetrator. Officer Post continued his investigation, which led to a consent search of one of the residences of the alleged burglars. Officer Post recognized the clothing worn by the actor in the robbery. Multiple suspects were apprehended for burglaries and robbery.
On August 11, 2008, Officer Post questioned an individual who was responsible for intentionally releasing pit-bull dogs on a utility worker. After questioning, Officer Post obtained a confession.
On July 6, 2008, Officer Post was assigned burglary follow-up and noticed that a trend had surfaced. In one of the offenses, a latent fingerprint was lifted. The subject was identified and arrested by Officer Post. Upon conclusion of questioning by Officer Post, the individual confessed to the crime and the property was returned to the owner.
On July 16, 2008, following a three-day investigation into shots fired incidents in the 2600 block of North 37th Street, Officer Post made an apprehension of an individual in an unrelated offense. After questioning, Officer Post connected the weapon to the shots fired incidents and obtained a confession.
In late July of 2008, there was a trend of entry into autos in the area of the 300 block of South 62nd Street. Officer Post conducted extensive follow-up and questioned suspects. A wallet containing credit cards and a global positioning system were taken from one of the autos in that specific area. The credit cards were used at a nearby business. Upon reviewing the surveillance video from the business, Officer Post was able to determine the identity of one of the responsible individuals with the assistance of the clerk from the business. The subject was located, admitted to the offense, and implicated a co-conspirator. Officer Post utilized his keen questioning abilities to obtain the identities of two additional subjects who were involved in these offenses. Officer Post persuaded both of these individuals to turn themselves in and obtained confessions.
Officer Post developed information regarding a juvenile involved in several burglaries throughout the northwest side of the city. The subject was located, questioned by Officer Post, and confessed to burglary offenses.
Similar type incidents have occurred over many, many months. Officer Post has been instrumental in the investigation and apprehension of numerous criminals, distinguishing him above other members of the same rank and position.
POLICE OFFICER STEVEN L. STRASSER
On October 21, 2009, an armed robbery occurred in the 3300 block of North 35th Street. The suspect vehicle and license plate were obtained at the time of the offense. Officer Strasser and his partner conducted follow-up, and obtained information from an informant on the location of the vehicle. A tactical situation was initiated. Three subjects surrendered and were arrested. Also recovered was a .40 caliber handgun and the clothing worn by the suspects at the time of the offense.
On October 17, 2009, Officer Strasser and his partner were conducting follow-up on a vehicle used in a robbery in the 5900 block of West Hampton Avenue. The victim had provided a vehicle description. Officer Strasser observed the vehicle traveling in the 3100 block of North 11th Street. A traffic stop was conducted, and the driver and passengers were wearing the same clothing as described by the victim in the robbery. One of the females was in possession of a cell phone, which revealed that she called the victim and “set him up” for the robbery.
On October 14, 2009, an armed robbery offense occurred in the 2700 block of North 48th Street. Officer Strasser and his partner began saturating the area. Other squads located the suspect, who fled on foot. Officer Strasser and his partner assisted in coordinating containment of the area, and the suspect was apprehended.
On August 26, 2009, an armed robbery occurred in the 2300 block of West Fond du Lac Avenue, involving a tow truck driver. Officer Strasser conducted follow-up on the surveillance video, and an informant contacted the Department and identified two brothers as the perpetrators of this robbery. Upon reviewing the reports, the officers recalled that one of the brothers identified himself as a victim in the robbery just the day before. Also, the other brother came to the scene and picked up his brother. Through additional investigation, the brothers were identified as the perpetrators in this offense, and they were apprehended on September 11, 2009, in the 3100 block of South 20th Street. A third suspect was later identified and charged.
Later on September 11, 2009, upon concluding the arrest of the brothers for the armed robbery of the tow driver, Officer Strasser and his partner assisted other officers in a Recklessly Endangering Safety arrest in the 3900 block of West Galena.
An armed robbery occurred on August 25, 2009, in the 2300 block of West Wisconsin Avenue. Officer Strasser and his partner obtained photos recovered from a surveillance video of a vehicle used in the robbery offense. They searched the Third District, and located the unoccupied Hyundai vehicle used in this offense. Surveillance was initiated on the vehicle. An actor returned to the vehicle, and Officer Strasser conducted a traffic stop. The driver gave consent to search the vehicle, and a wig from the robbery offense was located. This subject was arrested as a co-actor in the robbery offense.
On July 7, 2009, an armed robbery occurred in the 300 block of North 44th Street, 3800 block of West Wisconsin, and the 100 block of North 44th Street. Armed suspects approached all of the victims, and struck two of the victims in the face during the robbery. Officer Strasser and his partner obtained surveillance video from a nearby business, which depicted the three suspects. While checking in the area on July 9, 2009, a subject was stopped for a field interview. This subject was in possession of a watch belonging to one of the robbery victims. The subject was subsequently arrested and charged with three robberies and later identified two co-actors.
Similar type incidents involving Officer Strasser have occurred throughout the year. Officer Strasser has been instrumental in the investigation and apprehension of numerous criminals, distinguishing him above other members of the same rank and position.
EXCELLENCE IN POLICE SERVICE
POLICE OFFICER GLENN J. PODLESNIK
Beginning in May of 2008, more than 300 catalytic converters were stolen, which were valued at nearly $300,000. Officer Podlesnik discovered a crime trend and initiated an investigation in which he developed contacts and informants. This information was conveyed to him while on and off duty, which led to the identification of two potential suspects committing these crimes.
Officer Podlesnik conducted an extensive investigation, made numerous contacts, and conducted lengthy surveillance on two subjects, which resulted in their arrest. Since their apprehension, there have been no reports of catalytic converter thefts.
One suspect was arrested and had in his possession three converters and the tools necessary to extract this vehicle part from a vehicle. The other individual was apprehended while he was attempting to remove a converter from a citizen’s vehicle. This subject was purportedly responsible for providing over 200 converters himself to various salvage yards. Officer Podlesnik’s perseverance and problem-solving ability exemplifies the highest standards of community policing.
UNIT SERVICE
DISTRICT FIVE, ANTI-GANG UNIT
POLICE OFFICER DAVID D. BUBLITZ
POLICE OFFICER BRIAN C. BURCH
POLICE OFFICER SHAWN M. BURGER
POLICE OFFICER MARK E. HARMS
POLICE OFFICER THOMAS E. KLINE
POLICE OFFICER JASON E. RODRIGUEZ
POLICE OFFICER DANIEL J. VANDERVEST
POLICE OFFICER PAUL S. VENTO
POLICE OFFICER MICHAEL W. WAWRZONEK
In the fall of 2008, there were multiple armed robberies and home invasion type offenses occurring on the east side of Milwaukee. These incidents occurred over a span of several weeks and targeted students attending the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Officer Bublitz and the other members of the Fifth District, Anti-Gang Unit initiated efforts to focus on the illegal drug activities in this vicinity. These officers arrested at least 20 adults, resulting in 34 felony, drug-related charges. While executing multiple search warrants, four shotguns and one pistol were recovered along, with $34,000 in currency. Illegal drugs with a street value in excess of $75,000 were recovered as a result of these apprehensions.
While addressing the illegal drug activity in the area, information was received regarding the identities of individuals responsible for the multiple armed robbery and home invasion offenses. This information led to the arrest of nine individuals for armed robbery.
Officer Bublitz and the members of the Fifth District, Anti-Gang Unit put forth tremendous effort researching reports, developing informants, and working cooperatively with the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Police in order to ascertain the identities of the individuals responsible for the armed robberies and the home invasion offenses.
MERITORIOUS SERVICE
POLICE OFFICER BRIAN C. BURCH
POLICE OFFICER PAUL S. VENTO
On March 12, 2009, the dispatcher broadcast a report of shots being fired in the area of North 17th and West Atkinson Avenue. Officer Burch and his partner responded to the area, but did not initially find evidence of shots being fired. The officers turned off the ignition on the squad, listened, and waited. They heard two shots emanating from an apartment complex in the 1700 block of West Atkinson Avenue.
The officers exited their squad and approached the apartment building on foot. Upon entering, Officer Burch and his partner heard shots in close proximity. The officers reacted quickly to where the shots were being fired and observed a subject holding a .40 caliber Smith and Wesson semi-automatic handgun in his right hand. Officer Burch and his partner worked as a team to quickly convince the subject to drop the handgun, and the subject was then taken into custody. Seven spent casings were found immediately outside the apartment building, which were fired from the semi-automatic handgun in possession of the subject. Officer Burch demonstrated persistence and exhibited bravery when encountering and armed and dangerous subject.
POLICE OFFICER RONALD R. CAMPOS
POLICE OFFICER MARK J. HAASE
In the month of April 2009, District Six had been experiencing a rash of window-smash burglaries in a strip mall in the 3700 block of South 27th Street in which money and property were damaged. When the burglary offenses initially occurred, they would occur at different times of the night and weekdays.
On May 5, 2009, Officer Campos and his partner were dispatched to two businesses in the strip mall that had been burglarized. A citizen provided a description of an individual observed smashing the windows of these businesses. The officers were familiar with previous surveillance photos, and determined that the same individual may be responsible for all of the previous burglaries.
Officer Campos and his partner were on patrol on May 6, 2009, when they observed a subject traveling on a bicycle in the area of the 3500 block of South 27th Street, fitting the description provided by the citizen witness. A field interview was conducted. A wanted check revealed that the subject was currently on parole for burglary. The subject’s parole agent had filed a warrant, and he was placed in custody. The subject was linked to nine previous burglaries, but was officially charged with two. Officer Campos displayed diligence and tenacity in his investigation by apprehending an individual responsible for multiple offenses.
POLICE OFFICER BODO GAJEVIC
POLICE OFFICER JOHN D. WIESMUELLER
On April 25, 2009, Officer Gajevic and his partner executed a narcotics search warrant in the 1500 block of North 39th Street, and arrested a suspect for a drug offense. During questioning, the suspect confessed to the drug charge. Officer Gajevic developed a good rapport and gained the trust of the subject. The information obtained during their questioning indicated that the suspect might be the shooter in a recent homicide. This information was shared with detectives. The suspect subsequently confessed to homicide and was charged with felony murder. Officer Gajevic apprehended a dangerous criminal and utilized his experience and training to obtain information from a subject in a skillful manner to clear a homicide offense.
POLICE OFFICER MARISSA A. GUTMANN
POLICE OFFICER BENJEAN F. LARA
POLICE OFFICER KEITH L. MILLER
POLICE OFFICER ROBERT F. WENGER
On May 29, 2009, an armed robbery offense occurred in the 1500 block of South Pearl Street. Two suspects approached two citizens, armed with a handgun, and demanded money. One of the citizens ran from the suspects. The suspects robbed the remaining citizen and fled from the scene.
The citizen that escaped from the suspects flagged down Officer Gutmann and her partner approximately one block away from where the robbery occurred. The officers obtained the preliminary information regarding the robbery, located the other victim, and broadcast the description of the suspects and the direction of travel.
Another squad of officers heard the broadcast and responded to saturate the area in an effort to locate the suspects. The suspects matching the broadcast were located and a field interview was conducted. An officer recovered a toy handgun on the ground in the 1500 block of West Comstock Street. One suspect was in possession of the bandanna described by the victim.
Upon subsequent interview by detectives, both subjects admitted to their involvement in the robbery offense on South Pearl, and confessed to committing another armed robbery just 25 minutes earlier in the 1900 block of South 12th Street. Officer Gutmann displayed diligence in the apprehension of suspects involved in multiple robbery offenses.
POLICE OFFICER JACOB K. KNIGHT
POLICE OFFICER ERIN K. LELINSKI
On February 18, 2009, Officer Knight and his partner patrolling in the area of the 1900 block of West Hopkins Street, when they observed two subjects acting suspiciously at the gas station. The officers had knowledge that there had been several armed robberies and burglaries at the station in the past.
As the officers pulled into the lot, one of the subjects immediately grabbed towards his waistband. Officer Knight exited the squad and began to question the subjects regarding their activity. One of the subjects took unprovoked flight from Officer Knight, running eastbound from the scene. Several times during the foot pursuit, Officer Knight verbalized commands to the subject to cease his flight, but they were ignored. The suspect fell to the ground during flight in the 1800 block of West Hopkins Street.
In an effort to elude apprehension, the suspect began to physically resist. During this resistance, the suspect repeatedly tried to bring his hands to his waistband. Another officer arrived on the scene in the yard and assisted in safely securing the suspect. A handgun was retrieved from the suspect’s waistband. The suspect subsequently plead guilty to charges of carrying a concealed weapon and resisting an officer. Officer Knight displayed courage while apprehending an armed subject, and likely deterred other crimes.
POLICE OFFICER TOMMY L. WILSON, SR.
On December 8, 2008, Officer Wilson was responding to a shooting that occurred in the 500 block of West Lincoln Avenue. While traveling northbound on South 6th Street, he observed a light colored, four-door auto with several occupants traveling southbound on South 6th Street. The vehicle was traveling from the direction of the shooting, so Officer Wilson began to follow the vehicle. At one point the suspect vehicle pulled over and a subject exited from the passenger side. The vehicle then continued traveling westbound. A broadcast over the radio described the vehicle and occupants wanted in the shooting offense.
Officer Wilson recognized the vehicle and occupants as those wanted in the shooting offense. He also observed that the rear window of the vehicle had been damaged as if it was struck by a gunshot. The vehicle pulled into a hospital parking lot in the 2900 block of West Oklahoma Avenue. Officer Wilson along with another squad responded to the scene and conducted a high-risk stop. All of the occupants were taken into custody. One individual was subsequently charged with first-degree intentional homicide. Due to Officer Wilson’s keen observation and diligence, a dangerous criminal was apprehended.
POLICE DISPATCHER TIFFANY M. RAMSKUGLER
On May 19, 2009, Dispatcher Ramskugler received a 911 call that was transferred from the Milwaukee County Sheriff Communications and Highway Safety Division. The Sheriff’s operator informed Dispatcher Ramskugler that the line was open, but no one was requesting anything. Dispatcher Ramskugler listened carefully and heard faint voices and then tried to communicate with the caller. She did not receive any response, but she heard faint voices. While listening, she heard a woman’s voice say, “Move your knife. Put your knife away, you got me scared.”
Dispatcher Ramskugler immediately realized that the woman was in danger. Because the 911 call was from a mobile phone, no address was identified. Instead, the call displayed the coordinates of the phone based on the longitude and latitude acquired from triangulating the phone through mobile phone towers. She then conducted a search of the coordinates and established an address in the 3400 block of North 9th Street. The call was immediately entered as a priority one.
After entering the call, Dispatcher Ramskugler continued to monitor the conversation and entered detailed updates she received and shared this information with responding officers. Officers responded to the area, located the woman from the cell phone call, who was the victim of a rape, and apprehended the suspect. Dispatcher Ramskugler displayed exceptional listening skills and tenacity in the handling of this call for assistance.
