WOOD COUNTY, WI (OnFocus) – After nearly three decades of dedicated service in law enforcement, Investigator Sergeant Doug Christianson is set to retire from the Wood County Sheriff’s Department on March 18. His career has been shaped by a strong sense of justice, a commitment to helping others, and an evolving focus on mental health within law enforcement.
Christianson’s journey into law enforcement was inspired by his father, a truck driver who often found himself in situations where he could assist others in distress.
“Hearing stories about my dad coming across accidents and being able to help, I wanted to do that,” Christianson said. “I looked at becoming an over-the-road truck driver but it’s hard on the family, so I started looking at law enforcement, and it really appealed to me. I was raised with a strong sense of justice—when we saw something wrong, we tried to correct it.”
Christianson’s law enforcement career began as a reserve deputy for two years before joining the Wisconsin State Patrol, where he served as a heavy truck inspector and later as a trooper in Waupaca and Portage Counties. In 1999, he joined the Wood County Sheriff’s Department, where he has served for 26 years.
His career has been marked by both challenging and rewarding moments, including a search for a missing autistic boy that brought together an outpouring of support from the community.
“The community showed up in droves to help search for him,” he recalled. “It was heartbreaking when we found him, but it was inspiring to see how people come together when someone is in need. I’ve seen that time and again throughout my career.”
One of the defining aspects of Christianson’s career has been his work in mental health. As an investigator sergeant specializing in mental health, he has played a key role in suicide prevention and advocating for better resources for individuals facing mental illness.
“There are at least three people that I know of who are alive today because I was in the right place at the right time,” he said. “One of them even sent me a thank-you card, and we’re still in touch. That’s the most rewarding part—making a real difference in someone’s life.”
Christianson was instrumental in bringing Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training to Central Wisconsin, which equips officers with the skills to respond effectively to mental health crises.
“Before CIT training, law enforcement wasn’t always given the tools to handle mental health calls properly,” he explained. “We used to have to fight people into custody just to get them help. Now, with the right training, we’re seeing individuals voluntarily seek treatment.”
Since its introduction in Wood County, CIT training has expanded, and more than 400 officers across Central Wisconsin have received specialized training in de-escalating mental health situations.
In addition to CIT training, Christianson has been part of a driving force behind the implementation of peer support programs for law enforcement officers and the expansion of transitional housing in the region. His advocacy led to a grant that helped a team establish a 30-bed transitional living facility in Wisconsin Rapids in partnership with Mary’s Place, a nonprofit organization.
“This facility is providing critical support for individuals who need help getting back on their feet,” Christianson said. “Every time I drive past it, I think, ‘I helped with that.’”
Law enforcement has changed significantly since Christianson began his career. He has seen a shift from a culture of emotional suppression to one that recognizes the importance of mental health support for officers. Technological advancements, including the introduction of computers and cell phones in squad cars, have also transformed how officers operate.
For new recruits, he offers a straightforward perspective.
“Forget what you see on TV—it’s not all running and gunning, and cases aren’t solved in an hour. This job takes a toll. You will see and hear things most people don’t even know exist, but you don’t have to carry those burdens alone. Talk to someone, take care of yourself, and always treat people with dignity and respect—even when it’s not returned to you.”
As Christianson prepares to retire, he acknowledges the transition could be challenging.
“I’m being intentional about preparing for retirement because in this profession, it’s easy to feel lost when you step away,” he said. “I’m looking forward to spending time with my family—camping, fishing, and hiking.”
While he has stepped away from most of his leadership roles, he hasn’t ruled out returning in some capacity in the future.
“For now, my wife and I are going to focus on us. But there’s a pretty good chance some of these organizations may see me again.”
Reflecting on his career, Christianson credits several mentors who shaped his journey, including his father-in-law, a former investigator with the Wood County Sheriff’s Department, and Sheriff Shawn Becker, who played a pivotal role in supporting his efforts in mental health initiatives.
As he leaves the department, he hopes the community will continue to support law enforcement.
“The media doesn’t always portray law enforcement in the best light, and the loudest voices tend to be negative,” he said. “If you appreciate what we do, speak up. Your support means more than you know.”
Though he will be stepping away from active duty, Christianson’s impact on law enforcement and mental health advocacy in Wood County will endure. His legacy is one of compassion, leadership, and a commitment to making his community a better place.
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Author: News Desk
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