Tim Ryan, tryan@wolfrivermedia.com
Jody Johnson
The Shawano Police Department’s school liaison officer, Jody Johnson, will switch jobs in July, becoming the first detective on the department’s staff.
The city’s police and fire commission on Tuesday unanimously approved Johnson after interviewing her and four of her fellow officers who had applied for the post.
Johnson has been with the department for 21 years, the last six of which were as school liaison officer. She also worked for the Department of Natural Resources before becoming an officer.
“She has a vast amount of experience,” said Police Chief Mark Kohl, including sexual assault cases and crimes involving juveniles and juvenile victims.
“She will be a good leader and mentor for the other officers,” Kohl said.
Johnson will serve as the department’s lead criminal investigator. She will also be tasked with reviewing cold cases and working with other law enforcement agencies.
She will also supervise the new school liaison officer, though it is not known yet who will fill that position.
Kohl said the department would post internally and would ask for assistance from the Shawano School District, which could include school principals being part of the interview process.
Johnson’s promotion will leave the department with two vacancies.
In addition to the school liaison officer, the department is looking to fill the patrol position vacated by Kurt Kitzman, who left to join the Shawano County Sheriff’s Department.
Kohl said he expects both positions to be filled before the end of next month.
“We’ll be up to staff by July,” he said.
Johnson’s first day as lieutenant detective will be July 1.
In the meantime, she will undergo some additional specialized training.
“I appreciate the opportunity that has been given to me by the police and fire commission members and Police Chief Mark Kohl,” Johnson said. “One of my main goals will be to make sure all incidents continue to be investigated thoroughly by our department while making sure all victims feel valued and heard.
“The city of Shawano has provided me numerous trainings over the past 21 years which have prepared me well for this position. I look forward to continuing to serve the community in this new capacity.”