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Neenah officer Joseph Benoit honored as 2025 First Responder for 53rd Assembly District
Summary
State Representative Dean Crawford presented Neenah Police Officer Joseph Benoit with the 2025 First Responder of the Year citation for the 53rd Assembly District, recognizing over 19 years of service, community policing leadership and several local outreach programs.
State Representative Dean Crawford presented Neenah Police Officer Joseph Benoit with the 2025 First Responder of the Year citation for the 53rd Assembly District during the Nov. 5 Neenah Common Council meeting.
Crawford said the state program recognizes one honoree from each of the 99 assembly districts and read a formal citation that highlighted Benoit's more than 19 years in law enforcement, his appointment as community policing coordinator in 2023, leadership of the department's peer support team and his role creating community programs such as Camp Fire with a Cop and Neenah's Night Out.
Chief Olsen, who helped prepare Benoit's nomination, praised Benoit as "the right person in the right seat" and said department surveys and community feedback consistently note Benoit's strong engagement. Officer Benoit accepted the honor and thanked his family, colleagues and the community, saying the award is a reminder to "use the time wisely" and remain focused on connecting with residents.
The presentation was ceremonial; no formal council action was required. Council members and staff offered congratulations and allowed a brief pause so Benoit's family could leave the chambers.
The recognition follows the state assembly's program of honoring first responders from each district; Representative Crawford noted the event brings nominees and their families to Madison for recognition and that the honor is bestowed every two years.
