Manitowoc County Sheriff's Office

03/11/2026

🎉 Congratulations on Your Retirement, Pam! 🎉

The Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office would like to recognize and congratulate Pam on her well-deserved retirement on November 1, 2026!

Pam began her career with our agency on August 22, 2004, as a Corrections Officer. Through her dedication and hard work, she was promoted to Jail Sergeant on January 29, 2008. Over the course of more than 22 years, Pam has made a lasting contribution to our agency, her fellow employees, and the citizens of Manitowoc County. We are grateful for Pam’s years of commitment, professionalism, and service to our organization.

Please join us in thanking her for 22 years of dedicated service and wishing her a happy retirement!

We wish you all the best in this next chapter! May it be filled with good health, happiness, and plenty of time to enjoy the things you enjoy.

28/10/2026

MANITOWOC COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
MEDIA RELEASE

October 28, 2026

Fatal Crash Claims Life of Illinois Resident

On October 27, 2026, at approximately 1:50 p.m., deputies with the Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office, along with personnel from the Wisconsin State Patrol and emergency medical services, were
dispatched to the area of USH 151 and Lower Falls Road, Township of Cato, for a reported crash involving two semi-trucks.

The preliminary investigation indicates that a 2022 Mack semi-truck, operated by a 44-year-old male from Illinois, was traveling eastbound on USH 151 when it crossed the centerline and collided with a 2014 Freightliner semi-truck traveling westbound. The Freightliner was operated by a 55-year-old male from De Pere, Wisconsin.

The 55-year-old operator was extricated from his vehicle and airlifted by ThedaStar to ThedaCare Regional Medical Center for medical treatment. The 44-year-old operator was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Wisconsin State Patrol is conducting a full crash reconstruction. As this investigation remains ongoing, no additional information is being released at this time.

The Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the following agencies for their assistance with the crash response and investigation: Wisconsin State Patrol, Valders EMS and Fire, ThedaStar, Reedsville Fire, St. Nazianz Fire, Branch Fire, the Manitowoc County Coroner’s Office, Manitowoc County Joint Dispatch Center and the Manitowoc County Highway Department.

We also extend our appreciation to Hi-Way 42 Garage and Towing, Manitowoc Disposal, R Braun, Inc., and Right Way Applications for their assistance with cleanup and vehicle removal.

The Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the deceased and to all those affected by this tragic incident.

Dan Hartwig, Sheriff
Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office

28/10/2026

BUCKLE UP. PHONE DOWN. EVERY TRIP. EVERY TIME.

The Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone, not just today, but every day, to make safety a priority behind the wheel!

📊 The Facts:
Distracted driving contributed to more than 9,000 crashes and 31 deaths in Wisconsin in 2025.

Unbuckled drivers and passengers accounted for 47% of traffic fatalities last year.

🚗 BUCKLE UP: Wisconsin law requires drivers and passengers over age 4 to wear seat belts. Children under 4 must use an appropriate child safety restraint. Seat belt violations are a primary enforcement offense.

📱 PHONE DOWN: Texting while driving is illegal in Wisconsin. Drivers with probationary licenses or instruction permits generally cannot use cell phones while driving, except to report an emergency. Wisconsin also prohibits handheld phone use while driving in a work zone.

Make the safe choice every time you drive. Buckle up, put your phone down, and arrive safely!

26/10/2026

WE’RE HIRING AT THE MANITOWOC COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE!

Looking for a rewarding career where you can make a difference? Join our team!

👮 DEPUTY SHERIFF

-Starting Pay: $33.73/hour / Lateral Transfer Pay: Up to $40.80/hour
-Wisconsin LESB certification required
-Recent graduates encouraged to apply!
-Laterals Welcome

-Specialty opportunities: K9, SWAT, Drone Operations, Boat Patrol, Snowmobile Patrol, Dive Team, Honor Guard, Trainer, Instructor, Metro Drug Unit, Detective Unit, Mobile Field Force, Crisis Negotiator.

🔒 CORRECTIONS OFFICER

-Starting Pay: $26.41/hour
-Full-time position
-2-2-3 work schedule — approximately 15 days per month - Every Other Weekend Off

Help maintain jail safety, security, and inmate care

WHY JOIN US?
✅Be part of a supportive, team-oriented environment
✅Make a difference in your community
✅Build a meaningful career with opportunities to grow

Ready to serve? Explore career opportunities with Manitowoc County and apply today!

https://secure10.saashr.com/ta/6087114.careers?rnd=AQJ&%40rtm=1&JobsSearch=1&lang=en-US

19/10/2026

Single-Vehicle Crash Claims Life of Manitowoc Man in Town of Newton

On October 18, 2026, at approximately 5:32 PM, a deputy with the Manitowoc County Sheriff's Office came across a single-vehicle crash that had recently occurred at the intersection of State Highway 42 and County Road C, within the Township of Newton.

The preliminary investigation indicates that a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu was traveling eastbound on County Road C when it left the roadway and entered the ditch. The vehicle subsequently overturned and came to rest in the intersection. During the crash sequence, the operator was ejected from the vehicle.

The operator and sole occupant, a 25-year-old man from Manitowoc, succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene despite lifesaving efforts by emergency responders.

The crash remains under investigation. No further information is being released at this time.

On behalf of the Sheriff's Office, we extend our deepest condolences to the family and all those affected by this tragic incident.

Thank you to the following agencies for your assistance: Newton Fire Department and Newton First Responders, Manitowoc County Coroner's Office, Manitowoc County Dispatch Center, Manitowoc County Highway Department, Manitowoc Fire and Rescue, and Hi-Way 42 Garage & Towing.

Dan Hartwig
Sheriff, Manitowoc County

17/10/2026

🚨 MOVE OVER or SLOW DOWN 🚨

Wisconsin’s Move Over Law protects first responders, roadside workers, and stranded motorists.

Over the past five years, 128 people were injured, and six were killed while inside or near a stopped vehicle along Wisconsin roadways.

✅ Move over when it is safe to do so.
✅ If you can’t safely move over or are on a single-lane roadway, slow down.
✅ Stay alert, put your phone down, and watch for stopped vehicles.

Your choices behind the wheel can save lives. Let’s all do our part to keep Wisconsin’s roadways safe!

12/10/2026

Welcome to Our Team!

Please join us in welcoming Corrections Officer Deion Marquez and Jail Account Specialist Carissa Kortas to the Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office team and family.

We wish them great success as they begin their careers with Manitowoc County.

Congratulations, Deion and Carissa, and welcome!

08/10/2026

October 8, 2026
Media Release

Investigation Leads to Arrests for Solicitation to Commit Homicide

In September of 2026, Investigators with the Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office were informed of a possible threat of solicitation to commit homicide. Investigators immediately started to investigate and did reveal credible concerns. Investigators collaboratively worked with partnering agencies and did obtain probable cause to arrest two Newton residents for Solicitation to Commit First-Degree Intentional Homicide.

On October 6, 2026, Investigators conducted a traffic stop and arrested 37-year-old Larry Wallen and 49-year-old Christina Seguin. Both were taken into custody without incident and were booked into the Manitowoc County Jail. As a result, the targeted victim was unharmed.

On October 7, 2026, Manitowoc County Court Commissioner Jewel Scharenbroch set bail at $150,000 cash for Wallen and $10,000 cash for Seguin.

Assisting agencies included the Manitowoc County Metro Drug Unit, Manitowoc County District Attorney’s Office, Two Rivers Police Department, Wisconsin State Patrol, Wisconsin Department of Justice – Division of Criminal Investigation (Appleton Field Office), Manitowoc County Joint Dispatch Center, and HI-WAY 42 Garage.

I commend the collaborative efforts of all agencies involved. This investigation highlights the dedication and professionalism of our detectives and partner agencies. Their coordinated efforts ensured that no one was harmed and that those responsible were safely taken into custody.

Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office at 920 683 4201. Anonymous tips may be submitted through the P3 Tips App. Individuals may also reach Detective Rob Wandrie directly at 920 683 4215.

Dan Hartwig, Sheriff
Manitowoc County

03/10/2026

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and fellow troopers of Wisconsin State Patrol Trooper Bradley Ritger during this incredibly difficult time.

Trooper Ritger dedicated his life to serving and protecting others, and we honor his service, sacrifice, and commitment to the people of Wisconsin.

Rest in peace, Trooper Ritger. Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

It is with profound sadness that the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and Wisconsin State Patrol announce the line-of-duty death of Trooper Bradley Ritger at the age of 29.

On September 21, 2026, Trooper Ritger was responding to a traffic pursuit when he deployed a tire deflation device on a bridge deck west of the Dunn County/Eau Claire County line. As he moved to a position of cover, he fell from the bridge onto the roadway below. Despite lifesaving efforts and critical medical care, Trooper Ritger succumbed to his injuries on October 2, 2026.

Trooper Ritger joined the Wisconsin State Patrol as a member of the 67th Recruit Class. He served in the Northwest Region for nearly five years, primarily in the Dunn County area. During his career, he attained certifications as a general law enforcement instructor, mobile field force team member and squad leader, and salvage vehicle inspector. Prior to his service with the Wisconsin State Patrol, Trooper Ritger served with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections for three years.

Trooper Ritger was a dedicated public servant whose strong work ethic and positive presence left a lasting impact on anyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He approached every situation with professionalism, integrity and a genuine commitment to serving others. Whether assisting the public, supporting his fellow troopers, or taking on difficult challenges, he consistently demonstrated compassion and willingness to help wherever needed. His dedication to his family and unwavering commitment to his profession will not be forgotten.

We extend our deepest sympathy to Trooper Ritger’s family, friends, loved ones and all who served alongside him. As the community mourns, the Wisconsin State Patrol has placed a law enforcement memorial vehicle at its Northwest Region Post in Eau Claire where the public is welcome to drop off cards, flowers, or other condolences.

Out of respect for the family, no additional information will be shared at this time. Funeral arrangements are being made by the family. We kindly ask media and the public to respect their privacy and space for grieving.

01/10/2026

October 1, 2026
Media Release

Local Man Fatally Injured in UTV Crash

A fatal UTV crash occurred on September 30, 2026, at approximately 7:16 PM on State Highway 42 just north of E. Hillcrest Road. Deputies from the Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office, along with Fire and EMS personnel, responded to the scene after receiving a report that a UTV had struck a deer, overturned, and collided with a utility pole.

Preliminary investigation shows that the victim, a 47-year-old male from Mishicot, was returning home from hunting when his northbound UTV struck a deer. The collision caused the operator to lose control, enter the east ditch, overturn, and strike a utility pole. The operator was ejected and sustained fatal injuries. The operator was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

Life-saving measures were attempted on scene; however, the victim was pronounced deceased.

State Highway 42 was closed from E. Hillcrest Rd. to Rawley Rd. until 1:15 AM while WPS crews repaired the damaged utility pole.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is handling the crash investigation. No further information will be released at this time, as the crash remains under investigation.

The Sheriff’s Office urges UTV/ATV riders to practice safe and responsible operation by wearing helmets, using seatbelts, and maintaining safe speeds at all times.

Assisting agencies included the Wisconsin DNR, Two Rivers Police Department, Mishicot Ambulance, Town of Two Rivers Fire Department, City of Two Rivers Fire Department, Manitowoc County Coroner’s Office, PK’s Auto, County Highway Department, Joint Dispatch Center, and WPS.

Dan Hartwig
Manitowoc County Sheriff