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Public Safety
Police Department
We take immeasurable pride in our department and the job we do protecting the lives and property of the citizens of this community. We feel that we are an essential component in the continuity of a superior quality of life in Watertown.
Our per capita crime rate is among the lowest in the State. We are a community-oriented policing organization. This means that we operate in partnership with the people living in Watertown. It is only through these partnerships that we are able to accomplish our mission to provide superior law enforcement services to our community while making Watertown a safe place to visit, live, work, and raise a family
As you browse this website, you will run across some of the many community-oriented programs we carry out. Please take a minute to look us over. Thank you for your visit.
The City of Watertown is a diverse community residing in the center of some of the best hunting, fishing, and recreational opportunities in South Dakota. Watertown lies between two large lakes and has a strong industrial base to support its economy. Watertown is the trade center for people in northeast South Dakota. Watertown’s numerous parks and outstanding public education system make for a great place to live, work, visit, and raise a family. Watertown is home to Lake Area Technical College and Mount Marty University.
The Watertown Police Department is a 24-hour law enforcement agency, handling 27,000 calls for service each year. The WPD is a progressive agency that is committed to providing high-quality, open and community-oriented police services. The department strives to educate its employees and offers advanced training and educational incentives to all personnel.
The sworn staff at the WPD consists of 41 officers and 21 non-sworn employees. The WPD has a Police Chief, an Assistant Police Chief, three Captains, six Sergeants, four Corporals, four Detectives, two School Resource Officers, one Mental Health Officer, and 19 Patrol Officers.
The WPD is structured in such a way that it is divided into three main components, Criminal Investigative Division, Patrol Division, and Administrative Division.
Fire Rescue
WFR takes pride in its ability to serve the many needs of the community. Each day, our citizens call upon our 36 firefighters to respond to a variety of emergencies including medical emergencies, structure fires, technical rescues, hazardous material incidents, and vehicle accidents. Fire Prevention and Education also play a major role in our service to the City of Watertown.
Please visit our site often for press releases, public safety information, recruitment, and upcoming events. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or comments.
Watertown Fire Rescue will strive to exceed the expectations of our community while aspiring to be a positive example for all Fire and EMS organizations.
Watertown Fire Rescue is devoted to the preservation of life and property. Proudly serving our community by providing excellence in Emergency Medical Services, Fire Suppression, Rescue and Education. Always Ready!