Wausau Police Chief Earns 5-Stripe Milestone

Tuesday, March 11th, 2025 -- 9:00 AM

Congratulations to Wausau Police Chief Matt Barnes on achieving his 5-stripe milestone, signifying 25-years of law enforcement service with the Wausau Police Department.

Chief Barnes has served in almost every role here at the police department. From his beginnings as a Patrol Officer, he eventually moved on into investigations with the Special Investigations Unit and Detective.

He was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant, serving in the Patrol Bureau and with the Community Resource Unit. He was then promoted into the command staff, as a Captain in Patrol, Investigations and then Deputy Chief. He was appointed Chief of Police in August 2023.

Background of Service Stripes: For every 5 years of law enforcement service, we present our staff with a gold service stripe to be worn on their long-sleeve uniform.

Service stripes are small, but each stripe is significant and symbolizes a tremendous amount of positive impacts each officer has made in our community.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.