West District Blotter
Tag: Capt. Cory Nelson
December 27, 2018 8:14 AM
As of Jan 2, I am moving to the South District and Captain Tim Patton is replacing me here at the WPD. Captain Patton comes to us from being in charge of Investigative Services and is currently supervising 6 of our centralized investigative units. He brings many years of experience including … [read more]
December 20, 2018 4:45 PM
Even the police have Christmas wishes. Santa paid a visit to the West District today. The MPD wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season. [read more]
December 13, 2018 8:40 PM
All, we have just become aware of a bitcoin bomb threat where people/businesses are contacted and a demand is made for bitcoin or else a bomb will blow up. This has determined to be hoax that is going around the country. If you hear of this, please let folks know this is NOT legit. [read more]
December 13, 2018 5:21 AM
Here are the top calls for service in the West District for the month of November. [read more]
December 11, 2018 2:35 PM
Below is calls for service (CFS) data for the west district in November. The below chart shows the busiest day of the week for MPD. Below is the busiest time of day, you can see a significant spike in calls right around 3pm. [read more]
November 30, 2018 7:40 AM
Yesterday we were surprised by our core members of the Thursday Coffee with a Cop group from Steep and Brew. They came bearing gifts of coffee, snacks, tea, cookies. Their gifts filled two tables! Our officers were very grateful and humbled by their generosity. We very much appreciate the … [read more]
November 30, 2018 7:14 AM
This holiday season, please consider giving the gift of learning to a child who may be struggling. Lt. Mike Hanson is starting a program to raise money to pay for tutors for dozens of kids who are at risk and may be struggling with reading., " This initiative is a huge step forward or … [read more]
November 21, 2018 6:11 AM
After the turkey and pumpkin pie are nothing but crumbs left in a pan, many people turn to the internet to pass the time. As your fingers are flying and you find that one gift that you just must have, and is on SALE, you decide you must have it! While you are going through the check out … [read more]
November 9, 2018 2:00 PM
Today, Neighborhood Officer Ray Gillard organized a great networking event at Orchard Ridge Elementary. He had various stations for the kids to visit and to better understand our role in the community. Our citizen partners also spoke about what programs and activities are available for kids in … [read more]
November 5, 2018 1:17 PM
In the month of October, the West District has experienced 52 burglary reports. Of those, 69% involved suspects gaining entry into the residence by the overhead garage door or the side door to the garage. 42% occurred while the homeowner was present. 38% involved suspects targeting … [read more]
November 1, 2018 11:48 AM
These are the most common types of calls the officers in the west district responded to in Sept. [read more]
October 18, 2018 7:26 AM
Since many of you who read this live in the new Midtown district, I want you to know that there is an open house there tonight from 5p-8p at 4020 Mineral Point Rd. Stop by to see the unique features of the building and how they were able to incorporate some of the parts of the old Mount Olive … [read more]
October 17, 2018 1:35 PM
There will be two upcoming district safety meetings in the near future. Alder McKinney will be hosting the first meeting on Wed. Oct. 24 at 6:30pm at Our Redeemer Church at 1701 McKenna Blvd (across from WPD) Alder Skidmore will be hosting the other on Monday Nov. 5 at 6pm at Blackhawk … [read more]
October 15, 2018 7:21 AM
Below are the stats for calls for service (CFS) for the month of Sept. 2018. The district had 2561 total CFS during the month. [read more]
October 11, 2018 10:54 AM
This week, I have received over half a dozen emails and phone calls from citizens who are upset and frustrated by the auto thefts, burgaries and theft from autos going on. I have heard, "I don't feel safe, my kids aren't safe, what is MPD doing about it?" I just want you all to know, we share … [read more]
October 5, 2018 9:32 AM
Last night around 11:35pm, a young woman was southbound on Whitney stopped at the red light at Schroeder. A vehicle pulled up behind her with the lights off and started shooting. The young lady's vehicle was struck but fortunately, she was not injured. It is believed that the suspect vehicle … [read more]
October 2, 2018 11:27 AM
One of our employees found this beautiful black lab wandering in the 6300 block of Raymond Rd. If he is yours , he is currently at the West District Station. [read more]
September 20, 2018 11:43 AM
I just read 2 separate reports in the west district of someone calling from a number that comes back to the Dane County Sheriff's Dept who is claiming to be a deputy. This person tells the homeowner that they are from civil process and they are wanted on a warrant. A request is then made for … [read more]
September 13, 2018 8:40 AM
This morning, the Middleton School District held a "Breakfast at the Bus Stop" event for kids in the Morraine View area. Most of those children attend schools in the Middleton School District, even though they live in the City of Madison. As you can see from the photo below, this was a very … [read more]
September 12, 2018 6:48 AM
As most of you are aware, the Midtown split occurred this week. Our new Midtown station is open for business! This will not change the police service that you receive when you call, it really only changes some things internally for us, and adds another district station to help serve those of … [read more]
September 12, 2018 6:35 AM
In follow up to the blog on vehicle report cards, I decided to see for myself how many cars out there, were ripe for a theft from auto. I was out at 3am this morning filling out the vehicle report cards that were discussed in my recent West blog. I found that the majority of the vehicles … [read more]
September 5, 2018 9:37 AM
You may wake up some morning and find this piece of paper on your car windshield. It is just another tool our officers are using to help citizens become aware of things they can do to help reduce the chances of becoming a victim. Primarily our night officers have been checking cars in … [read more]
September 5, 2018 9:02 AM
I am reading another case on the west side where someone left an unlocked vehicle in their driveway and in the middle of the night, someone entered the vehicle and opened the garage door with the opener from the unlocked vehicle. They then went inside the home and stole things while the … [read more]
August 30, 2018 11:00 AM
While reviewing reports this morning, I have now read 6 different overdose reports just in the West District from the past few days. There appears to be a bad batch of heroin that has increased our OD's citywide over the past several days. If you have a friend, loved one or family member who … [read more]
August 30, 2018 10:45 AM
Yesterday we were pleased to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the Urban League's new Job Center. It will occupy the old Griff's restaurant building, across from Elver Park. We are very much looking forward to having this resource open on the west side by next spring! [read more]
August 17, 2018 10:25 AM
As many of you know, a new permanent housing facility opened on Tree Lane recently that provides stable housing to chronically homeless families. The facility is in need of furniture, many of the families have little to no furniture in their apartments. if you have anything to spare or would … [read more]
August 17, 2018 10:08 AM
Dominic was a 5 year old boy who was tragically killed after being hit by a vehicle on the west side. Dominic would have been starting kindergarten this fall and was really looking forward to starting school. After his death, Dominic’s family requested people donate backpacks and school … [read more]
August 17, 2018 8:23 AM
Some of Madison's finest have been on the roof of Dunkin Donuts on S. Gammon since 6am this morning, in the driving rain raising money for Special Olympics. Q106 Morning show hosts Jackson and Andi are also out with a live show here. Come on out and show your support for Special Olympics … [read more]
August 9, 2018 7:33 AM
Yesterday marked the end of the Club Badge program put on by Officers Ryan Henderson and Chris Marzullo. They partnered with Laura Harrington of the Allied Learning Center which is part of MSCR programming. This was a weekly program that ran through most of the summer. There was a great … [read more]
August 8, 2018 8:21 AM
The MPD is happy to announce a new program to partner with our community in solving crime. There is now a camera registration portal on our website that allows homeowners and businesses to register their surveillance cameras with us. This then allows MPD to check a location where a crime was … [read more]
August 7, 2018 10:42 AM
Our stolen car stats are up 67% for the month. Burglaries have also increase 51% for the month city wide, compared to 2017. Please lock it or you will lose it! #nightlylockup Report any and all suspicious activity! [read more]
July 26, 2018 1:32 PM
Last week, worldwide policing icon, Professor Herman Goldstein, a Madison resident, visited with the Coffee with a Cop (CWAC) Professor Goldsten was recently invited to Sweden to accept the International Stockholm Prize in Criminology. The CWAC group seemed to enjoy the interactive … [read more]
July 23, 2018 2:35 PM
Last night there was another incident on the far west side, where homeowners left their garage door open and in the morning, they found found both of their cars stolen out of their now empty garage. Do you really want to be the one begging a co-worker to give you a ride to work? Lock it or … [read more]
July 23, 2018 7:18 AM
Opera in the Park was held at Garner Park in the West District this past weekend. A little drizzle did not stop a fantastic event! [read more]
July 19, 2018 3:15 PM
On Wed, Officer Justin Nelsen with help from Monique Bryson of the Elver Park Neighborhood Center and Edgewood HIgh Football Coach Norris and retired Coach Minert teamed together to host a day long football camp for youths on the west side. They were helped by current players from the Edgewood … [read more]
July 18, 2018 9:39 AM
We are seeing a disturbing trend in the Nakoma neighborhood where suspects are entering unlocked vehicles in driveways, using the garage door opener to open the garage. Tthey then enter the homes at night through unlocked doors leading into the home while the residents are sleeping and steal … [read more]
July 18, 2018 9:13 AM
Crime stats for the West District show some good news and some bad. We have had a 56% decrease in shootings in the district in May and June of 2018 compared to the same time period in 2017. That is the good news! We have had a 165% increase in stolen autos in June of 2018 compared to June … [read more]
July 18, 2018 9:05 AM
And the winners of the Westfest ice cream eating contest are; Team MPD! [read more]
July 5, 2018 11:55 AM
Stolen autos are one of biggest problems right now. We have had 201 stolen autos already this year. Last year at this time we had 169 so we are up 18.9% over last year which was a record year. We had 42 autos stolen in June alone. These vehicles are being used by criminals to committ other … [read more]
July 5, 2018 10:19 AM
I think this photo embodies the 4th of July. Off. Slawek is leading the Waltham Rd parade yesterday. [read more]
July 3, 2018 9:19 AM
While reading reports, I saw another disturbing trend. We had 2 guns with ammunition, stolen out of two different unlocked vehicles in the West District. These are two more guns that are now in criminal hands that did not need to be there. One of them was a Draco AK-47 pistol (Photo below of … [read more]
June 28, 2018 8:45 AM
As I was reading reports this morning, I have seen 3 separate cases of credit card fraud. In each of these cases, the vicitm only realized their cards were being used because they reviewed their credit card statements. if you are one of those people who trust that there is no reason to … [read more]
June 23, 2018 9:40 AM
For those of you headed to the PGA event today at University Ridge, the Verona lots are now full as of 9:40am, please use the parking lot at Epic and take the shuttle buses in. [read more]
June 19, 2018 12:12 PM
Mark your calendars for Saturday November 17 from 9a-4p for the 2018 Mayor's Neighborhood Conference at the Monona Terrace. They are soliciting input on what is relevant to residents via a questionaire. Here is a link; https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/C3VVWNT … [read more]
June 18, 2018 1:23 PM
As of June 17, we had 97 shots fired incidents city wide. This is an increase of 14.1% over last year. This morning there was another burglary where an unlocked vehicle sitting in a driveway was entered and the garage door opener was used to open the garage door to the home. The suspects … [read more]
June 11, 2018 10:38 PM
We are experiencing a rash of burglaries and stolen autos again. The burglars are entering unlocked cars in driveways and taking the garage door openers. They then open the garage doors and enter the homes through unlocked doors leading into the home from the garage. Sometimes they steal … [read more]
June 7, 2018 1:52 PM
Today officers from MPD, Dane County Sheriff, Verona, Town of Madison, Middleton, State Patrol and others participated in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. Some people run several miles, some bike all the way to Stevens Point and or to Portage. This is a fund raiser for … [read more]
June 2, 2018 12:31 PM
Today was the groundbreaking for the Ronald McDonald House expansion on Marshall Court near UW Hospital. This is fantastic news for families with children who are being treated at UW Hospital and need a place to stay. The MPD was asked to safely escort Ronald today. See their website for … [read more]
June 1, 2018 1:22 PM
As of Sunday, we sadly say goodbye to Lt. Paige Valenta. She is leaving the west district to become the Captain of the South District. We congratulate her on her promotion and wish her fantastic success in her new position! We now welcome in Lt. Greg Esser who will be the new … [read more]
May 18, 2018 10:29 AM
Along with our horses, the Captial K-9 group was at the Police Appreciation event, along with K-9 handler Jim Donnell and his trusty partner. [read more]
May 18, 2018 10:09 AM
On Tuesday, a group of volunteers hosted a Police Appreciation event in honor of Police Week. It was a huge success with over a 100 community members and officers attending. A special thanks goes out to the volunteers who made it happen, Paula Fitzsimmons, Sister Ann McCullough, Cindy … [read more]
May 15, 2018 1:33 PM
In 2017 the West District Med Drop took in over 1,110 pounds of medications in the Med Drop box in our lobby! That is 1100 pounds of medicene that is now not in the hands of children in the district. Please keep us in mind when you are looking for a location to dispose of your meds. [read more]
May 10, 2018 8:27 AM
This week was a busy one for MPD and awards, we started the week out on Tuesday night with the annual MPD awards. I will note that west side resident Paula Fitzimmons received an Outstanding Support award for all she has done over the years to support MPD. Congrats Paula! Yestersday … [read more]
May 7, 2018 1:19 PM
Just a reminder for you Craigslisters or other on-line shoppers. Instead of meeting people in your homes when selling something, feel free to offer to meet in the parking lot of the West District. I can't imagine anyone with suspcious motives, agreeing to meet you at a police station! [read more]
May 2, 2018 2:43 PM
Friday May 11 is Blood Pressure Awareness Day, there will be free blood pressure screenings at the Meadowridge Public Library parking lot from 10a-2p. For questions, contact Sheray Wallace at sherayw@yahoo.com [read more]
April 30, 2018 7:44 AM
Over 30 volunteers from Blackhawk Church gave up their Sunday morning to help spruce up the exterior of the West District. In 3 hours, this group accomplished a summer's worth of landscape work! I get comments from citizens all the time impressed at how nice the district looks when the blooms … [read more]
April 25, 2018 1:48 PM
For those of you who have come into the West District Police station, you have probably met Melody, our Police Report Typist who is responsible for ensuring this district runs smoothly. Today, on Administrative Assistant Day, we salute Melody, she has worked in districts around the city for … [read more]
April 9, 2018 2:14 PM
With the return of winter weather, so followed the return of auto thieves. We had 3 vehicles stolen over the weekend just in the west district. Each of these vehicles were recovered. There was also a gun stolen out of a 4th vehicle. Just a reminder, please don't leave valuables in your … [read more]
April 5, 2018 10:43 AM
We had a great turnout on Tuesday night at Our Redeemer Church for the Chief's West District community meeting. We had short presentations from members of the Violent Crime Unit, Burglary Unit, Gang Unit, a Mental Health officer and a Neighborhood Officer. The weather appeared to be more … [read more]
March 27, 2018 7:33 AM
On Tues. April 3 at 6pm, Police Chief Mike Koval will be hosting a west district community meeting at Our Redeemer Church at 1701 McKenna Blvd. This is your chance to hear an update on police related issues and to ask questions. Representatives from the Violent Crime Unit, Burglary Unit, Gang … [read more]
March 22, 2018 9:04 AM
Yesterday afternoon and evening there were a couple of different series of shots fired calls. One was around 3:5oPM near the 5800 block of Dorsett Dr. The other was around 9:20pm near the 5800 block of Russett Rd. At this time, we do not know if these incidents are connected. We have made … [read more]
March 20, 2018 1:53 PM
Recently, a citizen reported being contacted by someone who claimed they were with MG&E. They were told they had a several hundred dollar outstanding bill and that if it was not paid within 45 minutes, their power would be cut off. They were then told to go to Walgreens and buy a cash card … [read more]
March 16, 2018 11:57 AM
Today was a landmark day for the Madison Addiction Recovery Initiative (MARI) ! Five people had a graduation ceremony from the program and are now drug free!!! Chief Koval was the keynote speaker today. The MARI program is a pre-arrest diversion program for low level property crime or … [read more]
March 15, 2018 7:46 PM
Tonight Alder McKinney organized a meeting with the Timberlake Tr residents who lived in the building where we had the recent incident on Feb 20 where the individual was arrested after chemicals and glassware were found. About 20 people showed up and they were able to ask questions of a panel … [read more]
March 7, 2018 10:45 AM
The other night, a group of our West District officers showed their caring and compassion to a family who recently underwent a horrible personal tradgedy. The officers went over and shoveled the driveway and sidewalk for them. This just goes to show the characer of the officers who work for … [read more]
February 23, 2018 2:35 PM
I am seeing a number of theft from auto cases in which windows were broken out of cars, and purses or bags that were left in plain view were stolen. Now, not only are these victims potentially the subject of other victimization by criminals using their credit cards or ID's, they also have … [read more]
February 12, 2018 7:39 AM
Anyone up for a quick game of snow football with some of the West District officers? [read more]
February 9, 2018 8:39 AM
I was hoping with the cold weather there would be a decrease in calls for service but I was wrong. We are still battling the stolen auto issue. Again a reminder, please do not leave your vehicle unlocked and running! For those of you who have not looked on our website, here is a link to the … [read more]
February 9, 2018 8:14 AM
We recently went through a shift change where Officers are now assigned to the Midtown district. Since the Midtown station is not completed yet, some of the officers are currently working out of the West District and some out of the South District. On the radio, the West officers identify … [read more]
February 1, 2018 11:22 AM
Our stolen auto statistics for January of 2018 are quite eye opening. We had 57 stolen autos in the city which is a 72% increase over Jan of 2017. Of those, 94% had the keys in the car and 71% were unlocked and running. As I am am writing this, another 3 cars were just stolen this morning … [read more]
January 30, 2018 7:29 AM
Yesterday there were 5 cars stolen around the City and Fitchburg, this morning another 2 more already, and it isn't even 7:30am yet. Please help us remind your friends and family to not leave your keys in your car! We can't be everywhere so please help us and report any suspicious activity you … [read more]
January 26, 2018 7:57 AM
Here are the 2017 West District Calls for Service (CFS) stats. Your officers serviced 48,904 CFS in 2017, that is an average of 137 CFS per day, just in the west district. By time of day: By day of week: [read more]
January 18, 2018 8:07 AM
Stolen autos remain a problem for us. From the Monday shift notes; One recovered stolen auto on the south side with an arrest One recovered stolen auto in Fitchburg that was stolen in Madison One recovered stolen auto in Mount Horeb that was stolen in Madison One auto … [read more]
January 5, 2018 9:25 AM
Many of you know we tried a social media campaign over the holidays to remind people to lock up their cars. It was on Twitter under #Nightlylockup and we had some billboards throughout the county as well. Off. Tyler Grigg coordinated much of it. As a result, we did experience an increase in … [read more]
December 27, 2017 11:42 AM
We have recently had at least 3 incidents of purse snatchings on the west side. These have been occurring in business parking lots with female victims. Ideas to prevent purse thefts are as follows: Leave your purse at home, carry cash or credit cards in your pocket (they can't steal … [read more]
December 20, 2017 1:09 PM
A number of groups and people have worked together to bring better access to health care to the Meadowood Neighborhood. The partners include, Meadowridge Library, Today Not Tomorrow, Inc- Project Babies, Meadowood Neighborhood Center and Neighborhood Connectors. Access Community Health … [read more]
December 19, 2017 1:22 PM
Recently, a local school dropped of notes of encouragement and crayon pictures of our police officers. It was very much appreciated by our officers! Thanks to all the kids (and teachers) for taking the time to do that!! [read more]
December 15, 2017 11:47 AM
At least a dozen cars had their windows shattered (probably in a drive-by with BB guns or similar) in the Meadowood Dr, Monticello Wy, Leland Rd, Thrush Ln areas overnight between 8pm on 12-14-17 and 6am on 12-15-17. We have extra patrols in the area but we need your help! Please be on the … [read more]
December 14, 2017 9:47 AM
Some of our faithful Coffee with a Cop members came bearing gifts for officers today! The coffee from Steep and Brew (thanks Saad) and snacks are much appreciated by all the officers at the West District! Please remember the CWAC group meets on Thursday's at 9am at Steep and Brew at 6656 … [read more]
November 29, 2017 9:53 AM
Don't let the snow lead to a ticket or a tow. Here are few things you need to know to AVOID a ticket or a tow: Alternate Side Parking is in effect city-wide with the exception of the Snow Emergency Zone (unless there is a Declared Snow Emergency). Alternate Side Parking is in effect from … [read more]
November 27, 2017 11:49 AM
Tis the season for thankfulness, celebration and SCAMS. There are a number of scams going on around Madison, one being the Grandparent scam. This is where are called and a person claiming to be a police officer says the grandchild was arrested and they need bail money to get out. The victim … [read more]
November 21, 2017 10:08 AM
This year so far, we have had 362 cars stolen in the city. Many of these are stolen by juveniles and are later recovered, but usually the cars have been damaged or involved in accidents. Many of these kids then endager themselves and the public as they speed and drive recklessly in the stolen … [read more]
November 16, 2017 7:36 AM
We started a new social media campaign yesterday on trying to prevent theft from auto. The City of Madison has experienced over 1100 Thefts from Auto so far this year. There have been 26 guns stolen out of autos this year There were 41 guns stolen out of cars in 2016 Since 2016 there are … [read more]
November 6, 2017 3:18 PM
Theft from autos is still a big issue Theft from Auto is down about 15% but we still have had about 1107 this year. There have been 25 guns stolen this year from autos. Many of them were actually unlocked! This is 25 guns getting into criminals hands that did not have to happen. … [read more]
November 1, 2017 1:08 PM
Thanks to Officers Wipperfurth and Ward who were out on patrol last night in the Raymond Road area helping kids feel safe! [read more]
October 11, 2017 11:00 AM
Officers Charles Warren and Sam Ward recently paid a visit to Bright Beginnings Day School and were met with lots of smiles. The kids enjoyed seeing the squad cars, visiting with the officers and getting stickers! Please contact us if you would like a similar visit. [read more]
October 2, 2017 8:51 AM
“National Coffee with a Cop Day” Open House You’re invited to a special open house on Wednesday, October 4th to celebrate National Coffee with a Cop Day! Stop in at Steep N Brew West (6656 Odana Road – Market Square Shopping Center) from 3:30 to 4:30pm to enjoy free coffee and treats and meet … [read more]
September 27, 2017 1:56 PM
In an effort to constantly improve our police service to you and your neighborhood, we would like to hear your thoughts and comments. Please take about 5 minutes to fill out this survey. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MPDWEST2017 [read more]
September 25, 2017 2:46 PM
Please join us Wednesday night from 4p-6p in the open area next to the Old National Bank on Raymond Rd. Along with free food grilled by officers and free books for the kids, we will have an exciting announcement! [read more]
September 25, 2017 8:07 AM
Midtown Update- I am sure most of you know we are constructing a new Midtown Police Station on Mineral Point at Westmorland on the site of the old Mount Olive Church. It has been sitting vacant for some time so for those of you who live nearby will happy to hear demolition is occurring! We … [read more]
September 20, 2017 12:14 PM
I just wanted to give all of you an update regarding the recent homicide/home explosion on Stratton Way. Steven Pirus, who is the suspect case had a bail hearing yesterday and now has a 1 million dollar bail. This was a huge case considering the time, personnel, and resources that were … [read more]
August 24, 2017 12:59 PM
Several of us from MPD were fortunate to take part in the first annual (I hope) Back to School Picnic that was organized by Officer Theresa Magyera and Jenifer Vondrak from the West Middleton Elementary School. As I mentioned in previous blogs, there are about 140 kids who live in The … [read more]
August 22, 2017 4:03 PM
Officer Justin Nelsen is one of our West District Neighborhood Officers assigned to the Theresa/ Betty's/Park Edge/Park Ridge area. He recently organized a one day football camp at Edgewood for some kids who may not otherwise be able to attend. Here is what he had to say; ? Madison Police … [read more]
August 17, 2017 10:53 AM
This month we profile Officer Mike Evans who is a 1st Detail officer in the West District. Michael currently works in patrol and has been with the police department since 1999. Before becoming a police officer, Michael worked as a counselor for a group home in Janesville, Wisconsin. Michael … [read more]
July 7, 2017 6:42 AM
Officers Ryan Henderson and Chris Marzullo are the two new neighborhood officers assigned to Allied Dr. Off. Gatdula, who was the previous officer, has been promoted and is now a Detective assigned to the Burglary Unit. There had also been a vacancy for a second officer in the neighborhood as … [read more]
July 3, 2017 12:57 PM
Every Saturday throughout the summer there is a farmers market being held at Elver Park from 8a-noon. This week, some of the West Police District Command Staff will be hosting a tent for questions and a meet and greet. Please stop by for a cup of coffee on us! [read more]
June 23, 2017 4:30 PM
Parking for the PGA event will be back to normal Saturday and Sunday at the University Ridge Golf Course. See info from the American Family PGA website. Summary Electronic signs will direct spectators to the designated parking areas on the cross country course adjacent to the golf … [read more]
June 22, 2017 1:20 PM
Just for a brief update, due to the wet weather, we do not want to damage the University Ridge area with grass parking so the parking rules have changed for Friday, June 22 ONLY. If further parking changes are made, that information will be shared on the American Family PGA … [read more]
June 11, 2017 7:01 AM
Every year, Special Olympics WI holds the WI State Games in Stevens Point, WI. Athletes from around the state compete in a variety of events similar to the Olympics. Several of our officers assist in the softball throw event which is sponsored by the WI Professional Police Association, which we … [read more]
June 1, 2017 1:28 PM
Recently, members of our West Community Policing Team spent time at Little Blessings Preschool, reading with the kids and educating them about Police Officers and our role in the community. They discussed personal safety, when to use 911, and helped the kids the understand the importance of … [read more]
May 23, 2017 12:39 PM
We recently received some exciting news that a Farmers Market will be coming to Elver Park this summer! There will be vendors, events, and different organizations represented. Please attend and support your local growers. Here is the news release: Elver Park Farmers Market Saturdays June … [read more]
May 19, 2017 11:11 AM
This past Tuesday, the West District felt some community love from the "We Support Madison Police" group. This is a group of citizens who were organized by Paula and Steve Fitzsimmons. They went out an solcited area businesses for food, beverage, cake and flower donations for the event. The … [read more]
May 16, 2017 7:31 AM
Each year, the Sauk Trails Optimist Club recognizes two West District MPD officers to be the "Officers of the Year" This year Detective Lindsey Ludden and Officer Dustin Pailing were recognized at a banquet held last week. Below is a short bio on each of them. Det Ludden has been employed by … [read more]
May 8, 2017 5:27 PM
Today has been a busy Monday! Lt. Hanson had the pleasure of meeting with members of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 501 from Madison. They presented the WPD with a certificate recognizing us for "Demonstrating Americanism in our Community by flying the American Flag" We at the WPD are … [read more]
May 8, 2017 3:39 PM
Sunday, we were blessed to have a life group from Blackhawk Church choose the WPD to do a community service project with! Blue sky and relatively warm weather ruled the day (along with donuts and bagels). Both young and old chipped in with weed pulling, mulching and pruning, and as the old … [read more]
May 4, 2017 10:31 AM
Recently there was a shooting call in the Russett Rd area in which a bullet went through the window of an occupied apartment. There was a 6 year old girl sitting in a chair who was narrowly missed. Shortly after this incident her little brother wrote a note to Officer Mike Love, see … [read more]
April 27, 2017 5:06 PM
Apparently the season of scammers is upon us. We just received a report from a couple who were contacted by a person who claimed to be their grandson, he said he was involved in an accident, another person then got on and said he was an attorney and the only way for the grandson to get out of … [read more]
April 26, 2017 3:02 PM
Today several of us in the West District took part in a meeting at the West Middleton Elementary School. I was surprised to hear that about 144 elementary age children who live in Morraine View area attend the West Middleton School. We decided to meet with reps from Joining Forces for … [read more]
April 17, 2017 10:10 AM
Today, we profile one of our officers who also hold a law degree, Officer Brian Vandervest. Many of you know him as a regular at Coffee with a Cop. It is held everyThursday morning at 9am at Steep and Brew at 6656 Odana Rd. Anyone is welcome to join the group! Brian has been serving in … [read more]
April 12, 2017 4:50 PM
Today an anonymous person was kind enough to drop off a cake to our officers. If the donor is out there, we just want to send a huge THANK YOU your way for thinking of us!! [read more]
March 23, 2017 6:25 AM
This week I will profile Sergeant Matt Baker who is one of our new night shift Sergeants in the West District. Matthew has been working as a police officer for the past 11 years. He grew up in central Wisconsin and attended the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. Before becoming a police … [read more]
March 16, 2017 3:56 PM
MPD has partnered with Carbon World Health introducing youth to fitness training. CWH has a series called Why Not Me in which they bring in major athletes to speak. This time they brought in Caylin Moore and allowed MPD to invite neighborhood kids from the West Side to meet with him. He … [read more]
March 9, 2017 4:59 PM
Yesterday, Officer Andy Slawek was on routine patrol on the west side of Madison. As he was driving along, the wind blew down a tree limb that smashed the windshield of the squad he was driving, luckily, he was not injured. [read more]
March 8, 2017 2:53 PM
One of our K-9 Handlers, Officer Henry Wilson, holds badge #1. The significance of this is great. He was hired in 1984 and is now the most senior patrol officer at MPD. It is an honor that very few officers will ever achieve. No other officers will be assigned Badge #1 until Off. Wilson … [read more]
March 8, 2017 12:11 PM
As I am sure many of you know, the City Council voted last year to bring in a group to study the Madison Police Department. That group, OIR is taking public input now. We look forward to studying the results of the study. It is crucial that you give feedback as to how we are doing. We … [read more]
March 3, 2017 9:51 AM
Yesterday was the National Read Across America Day which celebrates reading. A number of our officers took part in different schools around the city. Here are a few pictures with Off. Luedtke, Off. Magyera and Asst. Chief Williams. The reports from these officers and Asst. Chief, were very … [read more]
March 1, 2017 2:02 PM
I don't know how many of you realize we have a policing celebrity in our midst! Professor Herman Goldstein currently lives in our fantastic district. His roots in policing run long and deep. He is worth a Google search. He is considered the father of "Problem Oriented Policing" which for … [read more]
February 24, 2017 8:13 AM
Yesterday we had a fantastic multi agency discussion at Steep and Brew on Odana Rd. with some interested citizens, Off. Brian Vandervest and Sheriff Dave Mahoney. Thanks again to Steep and Brew for hosting, this is a weekly event occurring every Thursday at 9am if you are interested in … [read more]
February 24, 2017 7:38 AM
Some photos attached from our Safe Communities event last Saturday Feb 18, at the Boys AND Girls Club on Allied. Chief Koval was present, and there was a lively discussion in Spanish with PO Zulma Franco. Immigration Attorney Ramona Natera was present to answer questions as well. There were … [read more]
February 20, 2017 11:05 AM
On 02/17/17, memory care residents from Brookdale Senior Living Solutions Madison West stopped by WPD to deliver cookies to officers in the spirit of Random Act of Kindness Day. They arrived together in a bus. They invited officers to stop by anytime, especially for Sunday brunch and to play … [read more]
February 13, 2017 4:52 PM
At the West District, we have an intern, Meg Volgren who has been tasked with developing employee profiles on everyone at the West District that would like to participate. Today's blog profiles Officer Krista Luedtke, she is a day shift officer who rides sectors 104-105 normally. This areas … [read more]
January 25, 2017 7:24 PM
Recently, Officer Ricardo Franco hosted a West District tour for a group of students and teachers from Costa Rica. It was reported that they all thoroughly enjoyed the tour. Apparently lots of photos were taken. [read more]
January 23, 2017 2:00 PM
Every business, office or agency has someone who holds the ship together, the Madison Police Department's West District is no different. The person who really runs the show, is the friendly face you see at the window when you come in. She is Mel Ketchum, her title is "Police Report Typist" … [read more]
January 20, 2017 10:15 AM
The Burglary Crime Unit, (BCU) is responsible for investigating both commercial and residential burglaries throughout the city. The unit consists of 4 Detectives, 1 Intelligence Officer, 1 Pawn Program Assistant and 1 Detective Sergeant. Due to a long term illness, the unit had to work 1 person … [read more]
January 18, 2017 1:48 PM
I want to take a moment to introduce myself to all of you. I was recently promoted to Captian by Chief Koval and I have now taken over as the West District Captain as of January 1, 2017. I am replacing Capt. Vic Wahl who was also promoted to Asst. Chief in charge of Investigative Services. I … [read more]