When we see the police, we usually see the patrol cars and uniforms. But what keeps a modern police department running? In this episode, we sit down with Captain Ryan Beauchamp, Sgt. Trevor Barthel, and Sgt. Matt Hegg to explore the “Administrative Division”—the team responsible for everything from mental health co-response and treatment courts to youth programs and high-tech security assessments. We discuss the human side of law enforcement, the department’s new social media push, and a critical scholarship opportunity for local seniors.
[00:00] The Administrative Mission: Captain Beauchamp breaks down how the division supports the entire department through policy, training, and the community engagement programs that keep officers “out and about.”
[03:45] Community Safety & Security: Sgt. Matt Hegg discusses his role in helping local businesses and churches with safety assessments and crime prevention presentations.
[07:12] The Human Aspect of Law Enforcement: Sgt. Trevor Barthel shares his five-year journey as the law enforcement representative on the Treatment Court. He explains how seeing the recovery side of addiction has changed his perspective on the profession.
[12:30] Mental Health Co-Response: A look at the department’s partnership with the Human Service Agency (HSA), featuring Mental Health Officer Bicey and co-responder Ellie Anderson.
[16:15] Youth & Education: From “High Five Fridays” at Lincoln Elementary to the DASH program, the team explains why building relationships with the next generation is their top priority.
[20:45] Breaking News & Deadlines: The announcement of the WPD’s new Instagram page and the details for the 2026 DASH Scholarship.
Show Notes & Resources
1. Community Engagement Programs
DASH (Drug Abuse Safety & Health): A community program that hosts youth events and fosters partnerships between law enforcement and local families.
Security Assessments: Businesses, schools, and churches can contact Sgt. Hegg for safety presentations and environment assessments.
High Five Fridays: Catch WPD officers greeting students at local elementary schools every Friday morning!
Co-Responder Program: A partnership with the Human Service Agency (HSA) providing social workers and specialized officers for mental health calls.
Treatment Court: A restorative justice program where Sgt. Barthel works with participants to find a path to health and success after addiction.
Amount: Two $500 scholarships (one male, one female).
Eligibility: Graduating Watertown High School seniors residing in Codington County with a 3.0 GPA or higher.
Requirement: Interest in health or civil service-related fields.
Deadline: March 15, 2026.
Where to find: Check the Watertown Police Department Facebook or Instagram pages.
Instagram: @WatertownPoliceSD (New!)
Facebook: Watertown Police Department
Phone: 605-882-6210 for non-emergency inquiries and program suggestions.
Closing Thought from Captain Beauchamp: “We are citizens just like everybody else. We are all one team, and we’re all in this together. The more we work together, the better the community is.”
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