Current interim University of Wisconsin–Madison Police Department (UWPD) Chief Brent Plisch was named chief of police, UWPD announced Thursday.
Plisch's promotion comes after a comprehensive selection process by a 13-member committee chaired by Vice Chancellor for Legal Affairs Nancy Lynch. The committee aimed to identify a leader who will uphold the department's commitment to safety and community engagement, UWPD said.
Plisch will shift into his new role on March 16.
Former UWPD Chief Kristen Roman, who led the department since 2017, resigned in February 2024 amid an internal investigation that documented multiple violations of university policies, including failing to immediately report a romantic relationship with an employee she gave special advantages to.
The inquiry against Roman, conducted by UW-Madison’s Office of Human Resources also reported violations such as failing to report outside income and mismanaging fleet vehicle records and parking payments.
Since then, Plisch, who joined the department in 2005, has served as the acting chief of UWPD.
During his time at UW–Madison, Plisch has served as field trainer, K-9 handler and community liaison and has held various leadership positions, according to UWPD.
Prior to joining UWPD, Plisch was a captain in the U.S. Army. He has a bachelor’s degree from Winona State University and is working on a master's degree in public administration from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh.
“I will continue to promote the safety and well-being of all who live, work, and learn at UW–Madison,” Plisch said in a statement Thursday. “I, along with my UWPD colleagues, strive to create an environment where students, faculty, staff, and community members feel safe.”
Plisch said UWPD will continue their focus on building relationships, learning about community’s expectations and finding creative ways to engage UWPD staff to meet future challenges .
“Brent Plisch has a deep understanding of current issues facing UW–Madison and the surrounding community,” said Rob Cramer, vice chancellor for finance and administration. “Plisch’s time as interim chief of police has provided him the opportunity to refine his leadership skills and further connect with the UW–Madison and surrounding community.”.”
