SPPD swears in record-breaking number of officers this week; all local grads

By Brandi Makuski

STEVENS POINT — For the first time in the Stevens Point Police Department’s history, three recruits sponsored through the law enforcement academy were sworn in together during a ceremony on Dec. 19.

Officers Ryan Flowerette, Jarrett “Jerry” Lucht, and Bianca Patino officially joined the department, marking a significant milestone for the agency.

All three graduated from high school in either Stevens Point or Amherst.

“This is a monumental time for us,” Police Chief Bob Kussow said. “Each of them just graduated (from Mid-State) yesterday and will be starting their careers as full-time officers here at the Stevens Point Police Department. It’s a proud moment for our department and our community.”

Deputy Clerk Franc Kipar administered the oath of office, with each officer raising their right hand and swearing to uphold the constitutions of the United States and Wisconsin, and to faithfully discharge their duties.

Introducing the Officers

• Officer Ryan Flowerette: A Stevens Point native and Stevens Point Area Senior High graduate, Flowerette served in the U.S. Marine Corps as an embassy guard in South Africa before returning to the U.S. in 2012. He later worked for the Marathon County Sheriff’s Department, gaining extensive training in crisis negotiation and peer support.

  

Flowerette graduated from the Mid-State Technical College Law Enforcement Academy as class president and with the highest GPA.

“Ryan’s peers and instructors described him as helpful, positive, and a great communicator,” Kussow said. Flowerette will be the department’s 288th officer.

• Officer Jarrett “Jerry” Lucht: A graduate of Amherst High School, Lucht earned an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Mid-State Technical College in May 2024.

While in college, he interned with the Wood County Sheriff’s Department and volunteered with the Stevens Point Police Department’s auxiliary unit. Lucht, who ranked third in his academy class, is described as hard-working and eager to learn.

“Jerry’s supervisors and peers spoke highly of his dedication and professionalism,” Kussow said. Lucht becomes the department’s 289th officer.

• Officer Bianca Patino: A Stevens Point Area Senior High graduate, Patino earned recognition for her volunteer work with the Wisconsin Rapids Police Department and served as a reserve deputy with the Wood County Sheriff’s Office.

She received the Dr. Pagel Award for exceptional recruit officer at the academy.

“Bianca has overcome significant challenges with grace and professionalism,” Kussow said. “She’s dedicated, motivated, and ready to serve.” Patino will be the department’s 290th officer.

Kussow highlighted the challenges of a career in law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of support from family and the community. “We cannot do our job without an incredible support system at home and within the department,” he said.

Each officer expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve. “Thank you for the faith in my abilities,” Flowerette said. Lucht added, “I know my colleagues and I will give our best effort to make this community a better place to live.”

Patino thanked her family and coworkers, saying, “It’s been a rough road for me, but the support I’ve received has helped me reach this point.”

The additions bring the department’s complement to 46 officers. Recruitment is ongoing to fill two remaining vacancies, with the city approving a 47th officer for 2025, Kussow said.

The event concluded with refreshments, a department tour, and taser training for the new officers—a traditional rite of passage. Family members were invited to witness the training and join in the celebration.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have these three talented individuals join our team,” Kussow said. “Their dedication and achievements reflect the best of our community.”