Page 6 - Eric Wilde News Today

Its getting hard to find people willing to field 911 calls.

From the beginning, Ashley Schepers felt strongly about a service-oriented career.

In this week’s episode, Managing Editor Gary Castor chats with Jefferson City Police Chief Eric Wilde about the public perceptions of police officers, how the job has changed over the years, the challenges and opportunities facing the police department, and what Wilde’s goals are as the new police chief.

Jefferson City police officers have begun meeting with community groups about concerns and ideas they may have as the department prepares to outfit its officers with body cameras.

Its hard to encapsulate what has happened over 23-plus years for retiring Jefferson City Police Chief Roger Schroeder.

The town hall is scheduled to take place Thursday at 6 p.m. to discuss the upcoming implementation of body cameras for Jefferson City police officers.

In this bonus episode, Managing Editor Gary Castor chats with City Government Reporter Anna Watson about Capt. Eric Wilde becoming the city's next police chief. We also hear from Wilde on what he’s most excited about and what he plans to bring to the table.

On Thursday afternoon, Eric Wilde, a captain, was dressed head-to-toe in the navy police uniform in the lobby of the Jefferson City police department. He soon turned and headed back to his office, letting the door close behind him.

The appointment comes after the departments former chief, Roger Schroeder, retired in March. He served the Capital City since February 1999. Wilde was recommended by city administrator Steve Crowell.

Capt. Eric Wilde has been with the city since 1998, serving in a variety of positions.