I appreciate the chance to introduce myself to our neighbors and friends. I have been working for the Madison Police Department since 1996. It's a long time but sometimes it seems like I'm just getting started. It is safe to say it's an adventure every day.
Our very diverse department employs people who have come to the profession in very round-about ways. My journey is no exception. After earning a bachelor's degree in fine arts with an emphasis on painting from the Kansas City Art Institute I spent a lot of time in retail settings. On the way I learned the floral trade and worked many years as a floral designer.
Of course this seems unusual preparation for a law enforcement career. But I learned early on that the world of retail is an excellent training ground. The job of the local police officer is essentially customer service and that is what I try to bring to the job.
Over the last 22 years I have had the honor and privilege of serving Madisonians as a Neighborhood Resource Officer (North District), Neighborhood Intervention Officer (Vera Court), part- time Public Information Officer for the great Joel DeSpain, Community Policing Team Member and of course Patrol Officer. Every day is a new opportunity to serve, to problem solve, to enrich the relationships we have with our neighbors. I am humbled to have been given this position and look forward to continuing to serve.
-Officer David Dexheimer