I led the Madison (Wisc.) Police Department for over 20 years (1972-1993). Looking back at the work we did, I still see that the improvement work we did lasted and has carried forward into the present day. I see it in their mission statement, the decentralization we began (putting community-oriented policing into practice), and our commitment to excellence by fielding intelligent, well-trained police officers who look like those whom they serve.
Of course, not all of the innovations we put into practice withstood the test of time, but many did. (One of my most controversial steps was to invite the head of our police union to become a member of my management team. Forty years later, that still remains a practice within the department.) As to diversity, the most recent police academy was 35% female — raising the standard we established in the early 1970s of 25% women officers.
During my administration, our vision was “Closer to the people we serve. Quality from the inside out” and “belief in the dignity and worth of all people.” This vision permeated the department through my years and has continued until the present day.
MADISON POLICE — 2024
VISION STATEMENT
“Madison Police Department will be the national model for exceptional policing through our commitment to selfless public service, effective community partnerships and evidence-based policing.”
MISSION
“We, the members of the Madison Police Department, are committed to providing high-quality police services that are accessible to all members of the community. We believe in the dignity of all people and respect individual and constitutional rights in fulfilling this mission.”
CORE VALUES
“Human Dignity. Proficiency and Continuous Improvement. Diversity. Integrity. Community Participation. Leadership. Service.”
Take a look at the department’s latest annual report (2023) and you will see what I mean.
Madison is an example of a successful, diverse, high-quality, community-focused police agency.
But how about the police department in your city? How can they be rated? Click on the images below. Then learn a bit of history — how an “okay” police department in Madison, Wisconsin became a national leader and the factors and practices you should look for in an exceptional police department!
Improving Police: A Necessary Conversation 