Tim Ryan, tryan@wolfrivermedia.com
Contributed Photo Shawano County Sheriff’s Detective Richard Wright and Shawano Police Officer Keith Sorlie display their Officer of the Year plaques flanked by Sheriff Adam Bieber, interim Police Chief Dan Mauel, and Optimist Club President Gail Moesch.
Two of the city’s and county’s finest were honored Wednesday as Officers of the Year at the Shawano Optimist Club’s annual celebration of National Respect for Law Enforcement Week.
Shawano County Sheriff’s Detective Richard Wright and Shawano Police Officer Keith Sorlie were awarded plaques at the event, held at the American Legion Post 117 clubhouse.
It was the second plaque for Sorlie, who picked up his first three years ago when he was a Shawano County sheriff’s detective, often working alongside Wright, before Sorlie left the county to join the Shawano Police Department.
Sorlie was selected for this year’s award by former Police Chief Mark Kohl before he retired in April.
“Keith has a strong background in drug investigations, and is an instructor in unified tactics, such as firearms and defensive tactics,” Kohl said in comments posted on the Optimist Club’s website.
“Keith’s leadership and experience in drug investigations and training have been excellent. His tenacious work ethic and knowledge have set a great example for other officers on the department,” Kohl said. “We’re proud of Keith’s accomplishments since joining the police department. His upbeat personality and camaraderie with his fellow officers is second to none.”
Sorlie began his law enforcement career in November 1991 as an inspector, then trooper with the Wisconsin State Patrol. He then went on to the sheriff’s department and joined the Shawano Police Department in December 2015.
“The Shawano Police Department congratulates Shawano Police Officer Keith Sorlie and Shawano County Detective Rich Wright for their recognition as Shawano Optimists Officers of the Year,” interim Police Chief Dan Mauel said. “The recognition is well-deserved.”
In comments also posted to the Optimist’s website, Sheriff Adam Bieber said he was pleased to announce his selection of Wright.
Wright has been with the sheriff’s office full-time since 1990.
“During those years he has demonstrated a level of dedication and perseverance that is an example to all,” Bieber said. “Rich does nothing half-way, which is evident in his commitment to each investigation he takes on. This is clearly demonstrated by the number of ‘cold cases’ he has been able to examine and bring to closure.”
Wright is also a member of the Shawano County Special Response Team and provides oversight of the equipment used in recreational patrols.
“Rich’s contributions to the community do not end when he checks off duty,” Bieber said. “Rich has coached youth basketball and softball for years. He is active both within his church and committed to community outreach.”