Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
The new year brings a new captain to Warsaw Police Department. On Jan. 16, Detective Sgt. Perry Hunter will replace current captain Paul Schmitt, who will resign.
Schmitt, a 29-year WPD veteran, has accepted a position with the U.S. Investigations Services.
Hunter, who has been at the police department 21 years, is well-qualified for his new position, the second highest in the department.
In his time as a Warsaw officer, he has served as an underwater rescue and recovery diver, firearms instructor and field training officer. He also has studied interviewing techniques and the study of written documents.
Recently, he graduated from the FBI National Academy program, an 11-week program consisting of advanced investigative, management and fitness training for selected officers.
Hunter also is familiar with the Warsaw area, having lived here with his family nearly all of his life.
According to police chief Steven Foster, in addition to professional qualities and experience, the ability to work well with the chief is a must-have attribute for a captain.
The chief and captain work together closely, and a healthy professional relationship is essential to maintain smooth operations.
"Perry is one of those individuals I've worked most closely with over the years," Foster said. "Certainly he does possess qualities you would look to in terms of leadership."
Schmitt agreed with the chief, saying, "Perry was a logical choice because of his abilities, because he can handle pressure well and because he works well with the chief."
Hunter has quit his detective duties and is being transitioned into the captain position with Schmitt's assistance.
His duties will include the department's financial management and assisting the chief in developing policy and procedure.
When asked if he will miss his duties as detective, Hunter said he is ready to move on and and is ready for new challenges.
"I welcome the challenge," Hunter said. "The different type of work will be refreshing for me."
Schmitt, who is looking forward to beginning his job as a field investigator, thanked the city of Warsaw for allowing him to work here. "It's been a privilege working for the city, it's been great," Schmitt said. "I appreciated all they're done for me."
A retirement open house will be held for Schmitt Jan. 6 from 2-5 p.m. at the Warsaw Police Department, 2191 E. Fort Wayne St., in the training room. Guests are to park on the department's west side and enter through the north door.
