Plover Police Department welcomes two new officers

By Brandi Makuski

PLOVER — The Plover Police Department officially welcomed two new officers, Dan Menz and Joseph Steel, during a swearing-in ceremony held Dec. 2 at the police department.

Police Chief Ryan Fox led the event, which was attended by the officers’ families and village staff. Fox expressed gratitude to Menz’s and Steel’s families for their support.

“Today marks the beginning of this new chapter in your careers,” Fox told the officers. “You both are joining a dedicated team of professionals who share your commitment to upholding justice and protecting the well-being of others.”

During the ceremony, Menz and Steel took two oaths, including the Law Enforcement Oath of Honor and an official oath pledging to uphold the constitutions of the United States and Wisconsin and faithfully discharge their duties as officers.

Plover Village Administrator Steve Kunst and Police and Fire Commission Chairman Jeff Whitrock also addressed the gathering. Kunst emphasized the strong support within the village for its police department, highlighting the team’s blend of experienced and new officers.

“You’re joining a very accomplished team here, one that our community is both very proud of and has its trust,” Kunst said.

Whitrock praised the rigorous selection process overseen by Fox, noting the department’s commitment to finding candidates who align with its culture and values.

“This is no easy task that these two gentlemen have accomplished by standing up here today,” Whitrock said. “We’re excited to have you both aboard.”

Menz, originally from Belvidere, Ill., and Steel, from Shawano, Wis., both expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the Plover community. The ceremony concluded with careers with cake and ice cream

Menz and Steel make the 21st and 22nd officers in the department.

“We finally have our 22nd officer. The staff is tired, they’ve been working short-staffed, and we’re on the most overtime ever,” Fox said. “I need a minimum of three more officers, so whenever [the village] can find the money, we’ll hire another one. I need a minimum of 25 cops total just to keep up with demand.”