Chief Eric Atkinson is a veteran law enforcement officer and the current police chief for the Menomonie Police Department. During his career he served as a deputy sheriff, patrol officer, crime prevention officer, detective, patrol sergeant, detective sergeant, lieutenant, interim police chief and police chief. In addition to serving his community, he is a member of a variety of organizations, boards, and commissions committed to improving the professionalism of law enforcement. Those groups include, but are not limited to the International Association of Chiefs of Police Community Policing Committee, the Police Assisted Addiction Recovery Initiative Public Safety Committee, Wisconsin Chiefs of Police Association, Police Executive Research Forum, and Law Enforcement Leaders to Reduce Crime and Incarceration. Chief Atkinson previously served as adjunct faculty for the University of Wisconsin-Stout and the University of Wisconsin-River Falls in their respective criminal justice departments. Along with his history of service, Chief Atkinson possesses an extensive educational background. He holds a bachelor of science degree from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and a master of arts degree from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, MN. Chief Atkinson is also a graduate of Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff & Command and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar. Moreover, he holds a variety of certifications in specialized law enforcement functions. Chief Atkinson currently resides in Menomonie, WI with his wife and two children. His hobbies include playing golf, writing, and coaching basketball/baseball.