Thank You Veteran's

The Sturgeon Bay Police Department would like to thank and honor all our veterans who have proudly served this country. Your faithful service is appreciated, knowing your sacrifices allow us to live in a free democratic country.

We also extend a personal note of thanks to the US Coast Guard who has three units located in Sturgeon Bay. It is an honor to work with you, and we appreciate the strong positive relationship we built together to serve the City of Sturgeon Bay.

Last, we want to recognize four of our officers who have proudly served their country in the Armed Forces:

Shawn Mogen - US Coast Guard
Dan Coyhis - US Navy
Andrew Crabb- US Navy
John Hajny- US Army

Sturgeon Bay Man Arrested In Downtown Disturbance

On October 26, 2018 at 11:33 PM, Officers were dispatched to a disturbance in the 100 block of North Third Avenue. Upon arrival Officers observed a male outside a nearby bar bleeding from the face. Officers learned that a 25 year old Sturgeon Bay man had assaulted the male victim a few minutes prior to Officers arrival. The Sturgeon Bay man was arrested and incarcerated at the Door County Jail on Battery, Disorderly Conduct, and Possession of Marijuana.

Michigan Man Arrested For OWI

On October 28, 2018 at 1 AM, A Officer working patrol observed a vehicle travel over the center line into the oncoming lane of travel on Michigan Street near Third Avenue. The Officer conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and found that the driver a 41 year old Michigan man had been drinking. Officers administered field sobriety tests, which the Michigan man failed. The Michigan man refused to provide a preliminary breath test and was arrested for Operating While Intoxicated (OWI). The Michigan Man was incarcerated at the Door County Jail.

Lights of Christmas TODAY at Culvers

Arrested For 6th Offense

Douglas Hayden was arrested early this morning for "Operating While Intoxicated 6th Offense" after being pulled over for speeding.  

There are so many safe options to get home such as the multiple taxi services, Uber, and calling a friend.  Don't risk the lives of others driving home. 

Lights of Christmas Culver's Day

The 2018 Lights of Christmas Program

OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES

October 24th with Culvers Day!

 

Come have a great meal, support our men and women in blue all

while helping a neighbor in need - 10% of the sales will go directly

towards purchasing gift cards to stock area squad cars.

 

For those that are not familiar with the campaign,

check out the program in the links below:

 

https://www.facebook.com/LightsofChristmasOutreach

 

https://lightsofchristmas.us

 

 

Halloween Trick or Treat Hours

Wednesday, October 31st

4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Calling All High School Students!

Are you interested in a career in law enforcement, and currently enrolled in high school? The Sturgeon Bay Police Explorer Post 9368 wants you!

The Police Explorers are currently seeking new members interested in getting real life experience, and learning more about various careers in law enforcement.

For more information contact Officer Brandon Shew bshew@sturgeonbaywi.org, or Exploring Executive Hannah Jaeger hannah.jaeger@lflmail.org.

Sturgeon Bay Woman Arrested For 3rd OWI

On October 13, 2018 at 8:36 PM, Officers were on patrol when they were dispatched to a vehicle, which was reported to be driving all over the road. Officers found the vehicle and stopped it after observing the vehicle nearly strike a curb. Upon making contact with the 47 year old Sturgeon Bay woman the Officers found that she had been drinking alcohol. Officers administered field sobriety tests, which the woman didn't pass. A preliminary breath test was given, which indicated a .21 amount. The Sturgeon Bay woman was arrested for Operating While Intoxicated 3rd Offense and incarcerated at the Door County Jail.

Officers Investigate Accident Involving Home

On October 14, 2018 at 330 AM,  Officers were dispatched to a west side residence for an accident where the vehicle had struck a residence. Upon arrival Officers observed a vehicle partially inside a residence. As a result of the accident the home sustained substantial damage. Officers interviewed the driver who told police he thought the road he was on was a 45 MPH zone. The driver admitted to not knowing what speed he was traveling when he struck the residence. The area where the crash occurred is a posted 25 MPH zone.  Officers cited the driver with numerous traffic violations including reckless driving endangering safety, operate without insurance, and speeding.

3 Arrested Overnight For OWI

On October 12, 2018 at 6:36 PM, Officers were dispatched to an intoxicated motorist complaint. Officers stopped the vehicle and found that the 40 year old Sturgeon Bay woman had been drinking alcohol inside her vehicle. Officers administered field sobriety tests, which the Sturgeon Bay woman didn't pass. Officers arrested the Sturgeon Bay woman for Operating While Intoxicated 1st Offense and Felony Bail jumping. The Sturgeon Bay woman was incarcerated at the Door County Jail.

At 10:43 PM, Officers were dispatched to Stone Harbor resort for a vehicle that had crashed into their building. Upon arrival Officers observed that the vehicle crash had caused substantial damage to the building. Officers interviewed the driver of the vehicle a 28 year old Sturgeon Bay man and determined that the man had been drinking alcohol. Officers administered field sobriety tests, which the Sturgeon Bay man didn't pass. A preliminary breath test indicated a .155 amount. The Sturgeon Bay man was arrested for Operating While Intoxicated 1st offense and transported to the Door County Jail. The Sturgeon Bay man was issued numerous traffic violations as a result of the accident.

On October 13, 2018 at 1:08 AM, Officers were on patrol and observed a vehicle operating left of center and speeding on the west side of Sturgeon Bay. Officers stopped the vehicle and identified the driver as a 54 year old Park Ridge Illinois man. While talking with the man Officer determined the man had been drinking. Officers administered field sobriety tests, which indicated a .137 amount. Officers arrested the Park Ridge Illinois man for Operating While Intoxicated 1st Offense and transported him to the Door County Jail.

DCI & Sturgeon Bay Police Make Arrest In 43 Year Old Cold Case

CHEBOYGAN, Mich. – On Thursday, October 11, agents from the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) Division of Criminal Investigation and the Sturgeon Bay Police Department made an arrest for the alleged murder of Carol Jean Pierce, who was reported missing in September 1975. Law enforcement arrested Carol’s husband, Richard Gale Pierce, in his hometown of Cheboygan, Michigan.

“Three generations of law enforcement have worked to close this case,” said Attorney General Brad Schimel. “Today, we were able to make major progress in finding the answer to Carol Jean’s disappearance. Though many of Carol Jean’s family and friends are no longer alive, justice must still be provided for the late Carol Jean and those loved ones who still wonder what happened so many years ago.”

“After over four decades of investigation, Sturgeon Bay Police Department recognizes the Fillion family has endured 43 years of anguish for the loss of their sister,” said Sturgeon Bay Police Chief Arleigh Porter. “With no answers as to ‘why’ for years, perhaps some ‘answers’ will begin to be offered to the Fillion family members. While the pursuit of justice is often difficult, and in this case long overdue, investigators never gave up and hope to bring to light answers to family members on Carol Jean’s behalf.”

The criminal complaint alleges that Carol Jean Pierce, at age 35, was murdered by her then-husband, Richard Pierce on or about September 5, 1975. Richard previously stated to law enforcement that he saw Carol Jean on the morning of September 8, 1975. Richard stated that when he returned home that same afternoon, Carol Jean was gone. The complaint alleges Richard was the last person to see Carol Jean Pierce alive, had motive and opportunity to end her life, and benefitted from her demise in numerous ways, which included a pension unencumbered by a wife; most of the important belongings of their marriage; land and a home in Michigan; a new girlfriend weeks after Carol Jean’s disappearance, as well as the benefit of Carol Jean’s silence.

Richard Gale Pierce currently is being held at Cheboygan County Jail (Michigan) until his return to Wisconsin.

This case was investigated by the Sturgeon Bay Police Department and DCI, with assistance from Michigan State Police and Cheboygan County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by the Door County District Attorney’s Office. This case was additionally reviewed by the Wisconsin Cold Case Review Team of the Wisconsin Association of Homicide Investigators.

A suspect is innocent until proven guilty. A copy of the criminal complaint is attached.

https://www.doj.state.wi.us/news-releases/dci-and-sturgeon-bay-police-make-arrest-43-year-old-cold-case

Attachments:

Pierce Arrest Media Release

Pierce Criminal Complaint

Burglary With Criminal Damage

When enjoying a day at the park or riding by at night and notice suspicious activity, follow your instinct and contact your local law enforcement.   In the past week, three individuals were arrested for breaking into the concession stand at Sunset Park and damaging the inside.  We appreciate the community helping with park security to keep our parks safe.  

Sturgeon Bay Man Arrested For Assault On Officers

On September 23, 2018 at 10:30 PM, Officers were dispatched to a west side residence for a verbal disturbance. As officers walked up to the residence one of the men a 34 year old Sturgeon Bay man exited the residence and attacked Officers. Officers were able to escort the man to the ground where the man continued attacking Officers. During this time one of the Officers was kicked in the head with the steel toe boots the man was wearing. Once handcuffed the man continued to assault Officers by headbutting one of the Officers in the face. The Sturgeon Bay man was arrested and transported to the hospital for treatment. Once medically cleared the Sturgeon Bay man will be incarcerated at the Door County Jail on numerous charges to include Battery To A Law Enforcement Officer. Both Officers sustained minor injuries as a result of this disturbance.

Sturgeon Bay Man Arrested In Disturbance

On September 21, 2018 at 9:17 PM, Officers were dispatched to the 10 block of West Oak Street for a disturbance. Upon arrival Officers observed a male begin to run away from them. The male was later caught in a nearby alleyway and Officers found that he had been involved in a disturbance inside a nearby restaurant. The 34 year old Sturgeon Bay man was arrested for Disorderly Conduct and 3 misdemeanor bail jumping offenses. The Sturgeon Bay man was booked into the Door County Jail.

Probation Home Visit Leads To 3 Arrests

On September 14, 2018 at 2 PM, Officers were dispatched to a residence on the east side of Sturgeon Bay to assist Probation and Parole on a home visit. Upon arrival Officers found multiple individuals who had injected methamphetamine. Officers observed used needles and other drug paraphernalia in and around the property. Some of the individuals needed to be transported to the hospital due to their conditions. This investigation lead to the following arrests:

33 year old Sturgeon Bay man on a probation warrant and possession of methamphetamine related drug paraphernalia.

41 year old Sturgeon Bay man on a probation hold and possession of methamphetamine related drug paraphernalia.

38 year old Green Bay man on a probation warrant, possession of methamphetamine, possession of heroin, and possession of methamphetamine related drug paraphernalia.

All three men remain incarcerated at the Door County Jail.

OWI 5th For Sturgeon Bay Man

Daniel Anschutz was arrested Tuesday night for "Operating While Intoxicated 5th Offense", "Operating Left Of Center", and "Open Intoxicants".   Thank you to the citizen that called in concerned with the way Mr. Anschutz was driving.  We greatly appreciate the help of our citizens in keeping the roads safe. 

Sturgeon Bay Man Arrested For OWI

On September 16, 2018 at 7:13 PM, Officers stopped a vehicle on Egg Harbor Road for going through a red light. When Officers made contact with the driver a 40 year old Sturgeon Bay man they found that the driver didn't have a drivers license. While talking with the driver the Officer found that the driver had been drinking. Officers administered field sobriety tests, which the driver failed. A preliminary breath test was given to the driver, which indicated a .12 amount. The driver was arrested for Operating While Intoxicated 3rd offense and incarcerated at the Door County Jail.

Sturgeon Bay Man Arrested On Multiple Drug Offenses

On September 14, 2018 at 1:53 PM, Officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the City of Sturgeon Bay. Officers learned that the driver didn't have a valid drivers license to operate the motor vehicle.  During the course of the traffic stop a Wisconsin State Patrol Officer who was nearby deployed his K9 and the dog indicated on the vehicle. A subsequent search of the vehicle and occupants found approximately 29 grams Methamphetamine and multiple pieces of drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle. A 38 year old Sturgeon Bay man was arrested on multiple drug offenses and is incarcerated at the Door County Jail.

Seymour Man Arrested In Parking Lot Disturbance

On September 5, 2018 at 11:40 PM, Officers were dispatched to the parking lot of Econo Foods for a disturbance. Upon arrival Officers observed two males covered in blood. The subsequent investigation found that a 55 year old Seymour man had confronted another man over being parked in a handicap parking spot. The confrontation escalated when the 55 year old Seymour man followed the other man around the inside of Econo Foods. Once both men were back outside the store a fight ensued where it led to both men receiving injuries as a result of the fight. The 55 year old Seymour man was arrested for Battery and Disorderly Conduct and transported to the Door County Jail.

Sturgeon Bay Man Arrested In Downtown Disturbance

On September 16, 2018 at 2 PM, Officers were contacted about an altercation that had taken place earlier in the morning. Officers learned that the altercation took place in the 100 block of North Third Avenue. As a result of the altercation a male had sustained facial injuries to his face that required medical attention. This investigation led to the arrest of a 34 year old Sturgeon Bay man who was responsible for those injuries. The 34 year old Sturgeon Bay man was incarcerated at the Door County Jail on Felony Substantial Battery and Disorderly Conduct.

Harvest Fest

What great September weather we are having and to make it even better, this Saturday is Harvest Fest downtown Sturgeon Bay.  Come out and enjoy the 13th Annual Classic Car show, food, Street Art Auction, and much more.  To get ready for the festivities, starting at midnight tonight there will not be parking allowed in the following areas: 

• Quincy to Jefferson on 3rd Avenue
• 2nd Avenue to 4th Avenue on Kentucky

When all the festivities have ended those areas will be available again.  

Have a safe and enjoyable weekend!  

40th Annual Door County Century Ride Traffic

This Sunday, September 9th, is the 40th Annual Door County Century Ride.   The cyclists will be starting the route at the Door County Fairgrounds between 6:00 am – 9:00 am and ending in the safe location.  While you are enjoying your Sunday drive, be aware of the cyclists in the area especially around Egg Harbor Road and 14th Avenue.

The Sturgeon Bay Police Department would like to wish the cyclists a safe and enjoyable ride.

New Stop Sign

New stop signs were posted today at Florida Street and 7th Avenue make that a four-way stop.   

Labor Day Weekend

Labor Day was created as a way to acknowledge and pay tribute to the workforce for all that they have done to make our country prosperous and strong.  We would like to thank the citizens for their hard work in making this community safe.  

 

The Sturgeon Bay Police Department would like to wish everyone a safe and Happy Labor Day weekend!

IRS Phone Scam Alert

The IRS phone call is intimidating and threatening, however it is a SCAM!   This scam call has been taking place for numerous years now but peaks at certain times.  We have been receiving a high volume of calls this week.  

Here is some information about the scam call:

• The scammers use a system called spoofing which means you can call the number but it cannot be traced. 
• It is only necessary to contact your local authorities if you are out funds.  Unfortunately the funds cannot be traced or reclaimed.  
• The IRS will not call you or threaten you with being arrested by local law enforcement. 

That is one of many scam calls affecting many individuals.   Other scams are: 

• Grandparent scam:  The scammer pretends to be your grandchild and states he/she is in trouble and need money right away.  The one thing about this scam is many elderly will say it sounded just like their grandchild.  
• Lottery scam:  The scammer makes you believe you won a large amount of money or a car, however to claim your prize there is a small fee.   You should not have to pay money to get money.  
• Computer Virus Scam:  The scammer tells you to pay an amount and they will take care the virus on your computer.  

There are so many more scams out there and individuals are still being victims of these scams.  We may not be able to stop the scammers by tracing their calls but you can help individuals from not being a victim by spreading the word.  The majority of the victims are elderly as they are not on social media, so if you have a elderly grandparent or neighbor please educate them about the scam calls that are out there.   

Back To School Fun

Officer Jennerjohn stopped by St. John Bosco school today and the kids taught him how to play Ga-Ga-Ball.  Not sure who had more fun, the kids or Officer Jennerjohn.  

Wishing all the kids a safe and fun school year!  

Holiday Traffic

We are noticing the amount of traffic increasing already today due to Labor Day weekend.  Reminder to the locals, you are familiar with the roads and the area so be patient with those that are not.  Give yourself extra time when traveling to your destination. 

SAFE TRAVELS!  

Roundabout Safety Tips

The purpose of the roundabout is not to see how many cars you can pass or how fast you can maneuver the turns like a racecar driver.  Roundabouts are used by cyclists and pedestrians along with vehicles.  Pedestrians and cyclists will be using the Michigan Street roundabout to connect to the Ahnapee Trail, so here are a few safety tips for everyone:

As a driver:

• SLOW DOWN as you approach the roundabout
• Watch for cyclists and allow them to merge into the entry lane 
• Yield to any pedestrians or cyclists on the crosswalk or waiting to cross
• Be patient and yield to vehicles already in the roundabout … wait for a break in traffic

As a cyclist: 

• Communicate your intentions to the drivers by pointing your destination
• If comfortable riding in traffic, merge into the entry lane before the shoulder or bike lane ends

As a pedestrian: 

• Stay on designated walkways at all times and cross only at the marked crosswalks 
• NEVER cross to the central island 
• Be alert, watch for cars and cyclists 

Alcohol Related Accident Causing Injury

August 25^th around 3:00 am a 28 year old male driver struck a utility pole and the air bags were deployed.  The driver and the 27 year old female passenger were injured.  The driver admitted to drinking and was arrested for “Operating While Intoxicated Causing Injury”.

Bridge Rescue

On June 8, 2018, at approximately 1:45 am, the Sturgeon Bay Police Department was dispatched to the Michigan Street Bridge sidewalk for a distraught female contemplating jumping off the bridge.

Officer Crabb arrived and noticed a visibly upset female leaning against the three foot railing that separated her from the water.  The officer began speaking with the female who started backing up attempting to lift herself on top of the railing then slid back down to her feet.  She made another attempt to lift herself back onto the railing when Officer Crabb reacted swiftly making contact with her in time before she went over the side.  The female was taken into protective custody and transported to a mental health facility.  The officers quick response likely saved this young women's life.

Green Bay Packer Trading Cards Are Here!

 

The 2018 Green Bay Packers cards are here! Ask an officer for a set, or stop by the Sturgeon Bay Police Department to get yours today!

Found Property

Two young boys found this floating in the water near the boat launch when they were fishing today.  You may come to the Sturgeon Bay Police Department to claim the item and will be asked to verify any contents.

Another Successful Safe Kids Event

Community Service Officer Day and Police Explorer Siera Becker interacted with the kids at the 2nd Annual Safe Kids Door County Day event.   Great event to learn safety about boating, swimming, biking, sun, animals, poisons, fire, playgrounds, & more.  Hope all the kids had a great time and look forward to next year!  

Great Event For Kids

Dog Owner Identification Needed

UPDATE: THE OWNER HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED. THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP!

Our Department is asking for help in identifying the woman in the picture below in regards to a dog bite incident. If you have any information, please call 746-2450.

Michigan Street Bridge Closure

Alert

Wisconsin Department of Transportation

Northeast Regional Office, 944 Vanderperren Way, Green Bay, WI 54304 Phone: 920/492-5623 FAX: 920/492-5640 www.wisconsindot.gov

Release date: August 9, 2018

For more information, contact:

Mark Kantola, Regional Communications Manager

Mark.Kantola@dot.wi.gov, (920) 492-4153

Michigan Street Bridge closed to motorists daily next week in Door County  

WisDOT to paint beams damaged in vehicle strikes

(Sturgeon Bay) The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Northeast Region office announces the Michigan Street Bridge in Sturgeon Bay, Door County, will be CLOSED to vehicles DAILY, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday, Aug. 13, Tuesday, Aug. 14 and Wednesday, Aug. 15. These daily closures are necessary to paint multiple bridge beams damaged by over-height vehicle strikes. Pedestrian may still use the bridge, and it will continue to open for marine traffic while painting takes place.

Detour signs will direct motorists to use the Maple/Oregon Street Bridge to cross the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal. The Bayview Bridge is another alternate route to consider during the daily closures.

One over-height vehicle struck support beams on May 31, 2017. Another over-height vehicle damaged support beams on the opposite side of the bridge on June 29, 2017. Work crews heat-straighten seven beams. One beam was entirely replaced.

All repair work is weather dependent.

Theft

A construction site on the west side reported a couple new air conditioners along with the brackets being stolen.  If you have any information, please contact the Sturgeon Bay Police Department at 920-746-2450. 

Beware of Counterfeit Money

A counterfeit hundred dollar bill was used at a local business this week.  Be aware when taking large bills and be educated on what to look for.  Here are features on the newest hundred dollar bill:

Teen Drivers

You're a new driver excited that you just got your license and now want to got pick up your friends to go for a ride...put on the breaks!  New drivers and parents, make sure you are educated on the laws for youth drivers and the restrictions they hold as the Sturgeon Bay Police Department is seeing an increase in the number of new drivers violating the GDL (graduated drivers license).  First offense violation includes a substantial forfeiture and several demerit points.  

Please review the following links for information regarding the restrictions:

GDL Information #1
GDL Information #2

Sturgeon Bay Man Cited In Disturbance

On July 7, 2018 at 11:08 AM, Officers were dispatched to Walmart for a disturbance. Upon arrival Officers learned a 57 year old Sturgeon Bay man had shoved staff members from Walmart while he was shopping in the store.  Upon completion of the investigation responding Officers issued the 57 year old Sturgeon Bay man a ordinance citation for Disorderly Conduct and told not to return to Walmart.

Forestville Man Arrested After Traffic Stop

On July 7, 2018 at 11 PM, Officers were dispatched to McDonald's on the west side of Sturgeon Bay for a suicidal threats complaint. Upon arrival Officers learned that a 18 year old Forestville man was making suicidal threats to his friends while at the restaurant. Prior to Officers arrival the Forestville man left in his vehicle in an unknown direction. 

As officers investigated they found that the Forestville man was armed with a handgun and was in his vehicle parked south of the City of Sturgeon Bay. Officers and Deputies from the Door County Sheriffs Department responded to the area of where the vehicle was said to be. After a period of time Officers observed the Forestville man's vehicle travelling on the highway. A high risk traffic stop was conducted by Officers on the Forestville man's vehicle. The 18 year old Forestville man was taken into custody without incident. A loaded handgun was recovered from the vehicle.

The 18 year old Forestville man was transported to a mental health facility for evaluation. The following charges were referred to the Door County District Attorneys Office: Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Theft-Movable Property-Firearm, and Bail Jumping.

The Sturgeon Bay Police Department would like to thank the friends of the Forestville man for assisting Officers in bringing this incident to a peaceful end. A reminder for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts and or would just like to talk to someone the Door County Crisis Hotline 920-746-2588 is staffed 24/7 and is always available.

Juvenile Arrested After Disturbance

On July 5, 2018 at 9:59 PM, Officers were dispatched to Arbys for a disturbance that was occurring in the parking lot. Upon arrival Officers found a juvenile female injured after being assaulted by another juvenile female. Officers learned a fight had occurred between the two juveniles prior to Officers arrival. The responding Officers investigation led to the arrest of the other female juvenile involved in the altercation. The arrested juvenile was transported to a secure detention facility and charges of Battery and Disorderly Conduct were referred to the Door County District Attorneys Office.

Sturgeon Bay Man Arrested After Downtown Disturbance

On July 4, 2018 at 10:33 PM, Officers who were directing traffic at Third Avenue and Jefferson Street for the City of Sturgeon Bay fireworks overheard a male yelling profanities from inside one of the nearby bars. As Officers investigated they found that the bartenders of the establishment were attempting to have the 24 year old Sturgeon Bay man leave the bar for the night as he had too much to drink. When the bartenders attempted to have the man leave he began to yell, swear, and make threats to harm them. Officers arrested the 24 year old Sturgeon Bay man for Disorderly Conduct and Resisting And Obstructing An Officer. The Sturgeon Bay man was incarcerated at the Door County Jail.

Sturgeon Bay Man Arrested For Child Abuse

On June 21, 2018 at 5:35 PM, Officers were dispatched to Walmart for an adult male who had been observed by shoppers striking two children. Officers made contact with the adult male and the two children who were inside a vehicle in the parking lot. The responding Officers conducted an investigation and observed recent injuries to the children.  The 27 year old Sturgeon Bay man was arrested and transported to the Door County Jail where he was booked into the jail on felony Child Abuse and misdemeanor Disorderly Conduct.