Wood County Update with Sheriff Becker

Wood County, Wi (WFHR, WIRI)

Sheriff Becker sat down with WFHR’s James Malouf to discuss various news and events in Wood County.

Wisconsin Rapids ATV/UTV Ballot initiative:
The discussion began with the ATV/UTV measure on the ballot in Wisconsin Rapids. Currently ATV/UTV drivers have to load up and transport their vehicles along roadways in Wisconsin Rapids to access existing recreational lands. Most surrounding counties and municipalities have opened up roadways and created ATV/UTV traffic routes, with some roads remaining off limits due to traffic and safety concerns. Grand Rapids requires insurance, a valid driver’s license and bans open containers during ATV use. The sheriff suggests that as a model for the City of Wisconsin Rapids to consider. He reminded listeners that while ATV/UTV accident rates are similar to, and sometimes lower than other recreational vehicles, safety and responsibility are needed to help keep roadway access open.

Area Terroristic Threat dealt with:
Sheriff Becker discussed a recent terroristic threat event affecting our area. An Individual left a message on Sen. Ron Johnson’s voicemail making significant threats against state politicians, area residents and churches. Johnson forwarded the message to US Capitol police and State Rep Van Orden, whose office notified the local Sheriff’s department after Capital Police failed to do so. This communications breakdown at the federal level, according to the Sheriff, could have had serious implications for area residents. The Sheriff informed us that the targets include area churches with services in progress. Wood County Deputies located the Individual and with assistance from Portage County took Robert Arnold of Kellner, into custody within 2 hours. He is being held in the Portage County Jail with an initial appearance on October 16.

The Family Center and Area Resources:
The Sheriff then discussed the Family Center and area resources for those struggling with mental illness and other issues. Domestic violence is a must-arrest situation for law enforcement. Sheriff Becker suggests using area resources, including the Family Center before domestic and mental health issues become a law enforcement issue.

Upcoming Events and Congratulations
The River Rider’s Bike Share Fall Community Bike Ride is scheduled for October 16th at Lake Wazeecha. Bring your own bike or rent one at White Sands Beach. The event will be attended by the Sheriff and other department members. Meet at 5 at White Sands Beach. Bring your own bike and helmet or rent one while supplies last

Wisconsin Rapids’ Back the Badge Game will be held on October 18th, this year marking the 10th year of Sheriff Becker’s involvement with the event. The Wisconsin Rapids LHS Football team will be raising money. Officers and vehicles will be in attendance to show their support. Marshfield’s Back the Badge game played last week was well attended by students and local police, including a flyover by the Lifelink helicopter.

The Sheriff’s Department Calendar Raffle is underway this month. This is a fundraiser to support the county’s special response team and to raise funds for special equipment and training. One winner will be drawn daily through October to win outdoor and sporting related prizes. Sheriff Becker is wearing a different hat every day and welcomes suggestions from the community. The Department still has limited tickets available for sale.

The Sheriff and James discussed the possibility of the “battle for wood county” Marshfield Vs. Wis Rapids football game evolving into a wood county traveling sports award with a trophy designed by the kids.

Wood County Drug Takeback day is scheduled for Oct 26.

Victoria Stemper, recently promoted to Sargent was thanked for her quick action saving a life. Her night shift observed someting off with an inmate and was able to intervene quickly and prevent a suicide. The individual involved was uninjured.

Congratulations to Gary Blum on his 14 years of service to the department and help with transport issues.

Congratulations to Corrections Officer Tina Cigielski on earning her Bachelor’s degree.

Finally, the 2024 spirit award was discussed. This award recognized the Wood County Peer Support Team’s exemplary work. This team helps First Responders and other frontline personnel who may be struggling in their careers.

For more detail on any of these stories, the complete interview is available here. Or contact the Wood County Sheriff’s department