NEW LONDON, WI- After more than two decades of dedicated service, Joshua Wilson has officially taken the helm as Police Chief of the New London Police Department, bringing with him deep institutional knowledge, a strong connection to the community, and a commitment to maintaining the department’s positive culture.
Wilson, who began his career with New London in February 2001 as a patrol officer, has served in nearly every capacity within the department—from school resource officer and detective to assistant chief, working directly under former Chief Jeff Schlueter.
“It’s been my first and only law enforcement job,” Wilson said. “I’ve had the privilege to work through the ranks here, and I feel incredibly honored to now serve as chief.”
Wilson’s transition into the role is seen as a natural continuation of Schlueter’s leadership. However, he plans to bring his own “thumbprint” to the department—particularly through increased community involvement.
“Chief Schlueter made a big impact, and things have been going really well here,” Wilson said. “I don’t want to disrupt that with drastic changes. But one of the biggest differences people will see is my presence out in the community. With four kids in the school district and a lot of involvement in local activities, I’m already very engaged—and that will only grow.”
One example of that commitment is the department’s ongoing participation in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, taking place this year on May 19. Wilson highlighted this year’s effort as particularly meaningful, with Special Olympics athletes joining officers along the route, and students from local elementary and middle schools cheering from the sidelines.
“That’s just one way we’re continuing to strengthen relationships within the community,” Wilson said. “It’s not about fixing something broken—it’s about keeping our outreach front and center.”
When asked about his primary goals as chief, Wilson pointed to maintaining the department’s positive internal culture and ensuring full staffing, both for officers and dispatchers—challenges facing many departments nationwide.
“I want to keep what we’ve built strong and stable,” he said. “This is a great team, and I want to make sure we continue to serve our community with excellence.”
Wilson’s steady leadership, local roots, and community-first mindset signal a promising new chapter for New London’s police force.
Listen to Chief Wilson
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