When Fond du Lac was incorporated as a village in 1847 two constables were elected each year.

When the city charter was obtained in 1852 city marshals were appointed each year. In 1866 the legislature abolished the office of city marshal, and the police force came into existence. Each year from 1866 to 1885 the Common Council elected the police chief and policemen. In 1885 the law was changed by the creation of a Police and Fire Commission to manage these departments.

In 1866 the first jail and police barn were built. Police headquarters were in the council room. In 1890 the jail and police barn were remodeled, and headquarters were moved into that building. This station was abandoned in 1921 and a store building was remodeled, and headquarters were moved into that location. In 1954 the present City-County Safety Building was built to house both city and county police agencies at 180 S. Macy Street. In October of 2001, the Police Department relocated to the former Alliant Energy Building at 126 N. Main Street.

The Department now consists of 79 sworn officers, including the chief, and 10 civilian employees. Our Department is committed to a culture of understanding, compassion, and professionalism. We place a tremendous value on community and neighborhood engagement with the understanding that public safety is a shared responsibility and that police cannot do it alone. We work collectively to build trust and break down barriers between police and our community for a stronger and safer community for ALL people.  We believe that problem solving, customer service, and community partnerships is the foundation to be able to deliver a level of service that exceeds the community’s expectations.