Letter: Former deputy announces support for Chojnacki

To the Editor-

My name is Dan Wachowiak, and I am supporting Florian Chojnacki Jr. for Sheriff.

I retired in July 2021 after 22 years at the Portage County Sheriff’s Office. I have known Florian for 16 years and worked directly with him on numerous calls for service. I trusted his judgment, decision-making skills, and positive attitude while on patrol. Florian is reliable, trustworthy, and open to new ideas, and he possesses many attributes which are needed as a leader.

Florian wants to build working relationships with local businesses and people in our community to utilize existing resources that will help our community be safe and secure. He has clearly demonstrated his desire to be involved in our community with his roles in Cops N’ Bobbers, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Special Olympics, and the Stockton Fire Department, and will continue to be involved in the community.

I share the same sentiment as others, that we need a sheriff who cares less about micromanaging and more about being a respected leader. Someone who leads by example and focuses mostly on the success of the team. A recent example comes to mind. At the sheriff’s office, I helped build a successful K9 program with countless hours of training, and two exceptional working dogs.

After my recent retirement, Sheriff Lukas denied my ability to work with the new handlers, and went as far as contacting other law enforcement agencies telling them I wasn’t welcome to train with the new handlers because I am a “citizen and a liability.”

It should be noted that the majority of law enforcement K9s are trained by private companies. This is not an act of leadership, but an act of superiority. Florian recognizes how much better and cohesive the sheriff’s office would be under his leadership and will highlight the achievements and good work the sheriff’s office does.

Please vote Florian Chojnacki Jr. for Sheriff on August 9.

Dep. Dan Wachowiak (Ret.)
Stevens Point