Welcome to Watertown, WI

Watertown Police Auxiliaries

The Auxiliary Police was formed in 1942 as a Civil Defense Corps during World War II under the direction of a County Defense Chairman. The primary function of the organization at that time was to assist residents in the event of an attack by a foreign country. Upon conclusion of World War II, then Police Chief Theodore Voigt asked the group to become an Auxiliary Police squadron. The group became the Watertown Auxiliary Police and have been assisting sworn officers at special events and major incidents demanding prolonged law enforcement services ever since.

MORE THAN SIXTY YEARS LATER

The Watertown Auxiliary Police still performs an invaluable service to the community. Auxiliaries are assigned to law enforcement related community service functions such as Watertown School District sporting events, dances, and parades. Auxiliary Officers are also called upon as a resource in emergencies and large-scale special events such as Riverfest.

HOW ARE AUXILIARY OFFICERS USED?

Auxiliary Officers are not commissioned as law enforcement officers and do not have the authority to make a full custody arrest. However, Auxiliary Officers are trained in traffic control and direction along with limited self-defense techniques and police radio utilization. Special Events such as parades and community celebrations require a significant number of officers to safely operate. According to Watertown Police Department Chief Dave Brower, “The Auxiliary Officers provide an invaluable service to the community. Without our Auxiliary Officers our sworn Officers would be required to work exorbitant overtime hours at special events such as parades, dances, sporting events and Riverfest.”

Auxiliary Assisted Events

Run From the Cops 5k, and 1K Youth Run
The Memorial, 4th of July, Halloween and Christmas Parades
Riverfest
St. Henry’s Picnic
Icy Sidewalk Complaints
Lock Park Restrooms
Lights’N’Sirens

WHY BECOME AN AUXILIARY?

Citizens join the Police auxiliaries for a variety of reasons. Some have joined out of a desire to serve the community in a worthwhile manner. Others have used the Watertown Auxiliary Police as a stepping-stone to a career in law enforcement as a sworn officer.

AUXILIARY OFFICER REQUIREMENTS

Qualifications to become a Watertown Police Auxiliary include: U.S. Citizen and 18 years of age or older at the time of application, graduation from high school or equivalency, and of good moral character. Applicants must successfully complete an interview process and background investigation. Upon acceptance as a member of the Watertown Police Auxiliary, applicants are provided with a uniform and a standardized training program.

For more information regarding the Auxiliaries or to apply to become a member please contact Assistant Chief Olsen at his direct line 920-206-4206 or contact him online using the form at the bottom of the page.