Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Police chief warns of staffing challenges after officer departure; praises Shop with a Cop turnout
Summary
Police Chief Shaundra Randolph told the board that Officer Brian Murphy will leave Jan. 3 to take a lieutenant role at UWM Police Department and Assistant Chief Donovan plans to retire around June 26, creating near-term staffing gaps. Chief Randolph also reported more than 30 children participated in Shop with a Cop.
Police Chief Shaundra Randolph informed the Village Board on Dec. 15 that the department will face staffing challenges in the coming months.
Chief Randolph said Officer Brian Murphy, a lateral hire who had previously worked for the department, will be leaving on Jan. 3 to accept a lieutenant position with the UWM Police Department. She also noted Assistant Chief Donovan has a planned retirement around June 26, 2026, which together will create gaps until new academy graduates are fully trained.
"This departure, along with Assistant Chief Donovan's planned retirement around June 26th, will create staffing challenges until academy graduates are fully trained," Chief Randolph said.
Chief Randolph also reported on the Shop with a Cop event, saying it had a good turnout with over thirty children participating and thanking outside agencies and Target for partnering on the event. She confirmed an impounded car was related to the apprehension of a suspect accused of breaking into vehicles at local businesses.
Why it matters: Staffing changes at leadership and officer levels can affect patrol and administrative capacity; the board noted the need to manage transitions while recruits complete academy training.
Next steps: The village is negotiating with the West Milwaukee Professional Police Association and will continue recruitment and training to fill vacancies.
