Clarification: Neillsville Police and Fire Commission Dismiss Complaints Against Police Chief

Thursday, January 14th, 2021 -- 9:08 AM

The Neillsville Police and Fire Commission decided to dismiss complaints against Neillsville’s Police Chief.

In December, the Neillsville Police and Fire Commission met to discuss procedures after a complaint was issued against Neillsville Police Chief Jim Mankowski.

Neillsville City Council Aldermen, city officials, residents, and more came out in support of the Police Chief. 

At the December 22nd City Council Meeting, the council approved a certificate in support of the Police Chief, the Neillsville Police Department and its officers.

During a Police and Fire Commission meeting on January 7th, with only 3 of the 5 members voting, they approved the resolution. One member was absent (J. Bogdonovich) and, as chair of the committee, Mayor Diane Murphy can vote, but, in this case, she did not vote nor did she abstain. At the same Police and Fire Commission meeting, residents and aldermen came out in support of the Police Chief, stating they were behind him 100%. 

Some residents in attendance made allegations against some former officers, but stated the dynamics of the Police Department have changed for the better since Chief Mankowski has taken over.

In the end, the commission dismissed the complaints against Chief Makowski.  During this meeting, the commission also approved recommending the Neillsville City Council approve a full-time officer for the city.

Clarification: The clarification has to do with more information about the voting process.

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