Daniel Thompson

Chief Daniel Thompson, the current Chief of Police for the City of Waukesha, Wisconsin, has dedicated his career to law enforcement since 1991, starting with the Milwaukee Police Department. His exceptional skills and unwavering commitment have propelled him through various roles, establishing him as a distinguished leader in the field.
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Early in his career, Chief Thompson excelled in patrol, earning selection for specialized assignments with the Gang Squad and the Metro Drug Unit. His dedication to combating drug trafficking led to his promotion to Detective in 1999. For five years, he served with distinction in the High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA), a federally funded task force targeting drug trafficking organizations. Chief Thompson's expertise expanded when he joined the Milwaukee Hazardous Devices Unit (Bomb Squad), a role that demanded 24/7 commitment. His investigative prowess led him to the Homicide Unit, where he spent five years as a Task Force Agent with the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force, countering both international and domestic terrorist threats.
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As a Lieutenant, he assumed leadership roles in the Intelligence Fusion Division and directed the Southeastern Wisconsin Threat Analysis Center (STAC). Promoted to Captain, he orchestrated the Fusion Division's strategic use of technology and fostered partnerships with state, federal, and local agencies, as well as the private sector. In 2019, Chief Thompson was promoted to Inspector of Police, overseeing operations in the City of Milwaukee, including the safety and security of the 2020 Democratic National Convention.
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On May 4th, 2020, Chief Thompson assumed the role of Chief of Police for the City of Waukesha, facing unprecedented challenges as COVID-19 emerged and civil unrest followed. A year later, on November 21, 2021, he demonstrated exceptional leadership during the Christmas Parade Attack, guiding his team and community through the aftermath with resilience and determination.
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Beyond his operational experience, Chief Thompson's commitment to professional development is evident in his certifications as a public manager (Wisconsin Command College Class Six) and as a certified professional manager. He holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership and administration, underscoring his dedication to continuous learning. Chief Thompson has been honored to speak at engagements nationwide, addressing topics such as leading through crisis, building resilient teams, and fostering growth after tragedy for first responders.