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Sturtevant Shutters Police Department With Little Notice as County Deputies Take Over

The sheriff's office is covering the village under a temporary pact pending a longer-term contract.

Overview

  • The department announced the permanent shutdown on Facebook less than 24 hours before services ended at 6:15 a.m. Sunday.
  • The agency said the decision was made solely by the Village Board after calls for a referendum were declined.
  • Under a memorandum of understanding, two deputies per shift are patrolling Sturtevant on overtime paid by the village, according to the sheriff's office.
  • Village officials say a long-term contract with Racine County is being drafted, and the sheriff expects to seek authorization to hire about 10 additional deputies if it is approved.
  • Residents and the police union say they were blindsided, voicing concerns about response times and the loss of locally managed services.