Taking the Fight to Drug Traffickers

Sheriff David Zoerner has led the fight against dangerous drug traffickers threatening Kenosha County. Serving as Chairman of the Wisconsin Advisory Committee to the North Central High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, Zoerner supported elite clandestine drug units across Wisconsin and Minnesota. He expanded the Kenosha Drug Operations Group (KDOG), oversaw the largest drug case in KDOG history using federal wire surveillance, dismantled a major Drug Trafficking Organization, and embedded a KDOG detective with the DEA and ATF—bringing federal resources and forfeiture dollars back to Kenosha County.

 

Standing Firm on Border Security

Sheriff Zoerner is a national leader on border security, serving on the National Sheriff’s Association Border Security Committee. He believes in enforcing the law and backing our federal partners. Under his leadership, the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office cooperates with ICE through lawful 287(g) agreements to help identify and remove illegal criminal aliens. Zoerner puts public safety first and refuses to turn Kenosha County into a sanctuary for criminals.

 

Smart Policing that Puts Taxpayers First

Zoerner brought innovative, common-sense leadership to the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office (KESO) by embedding a full-time social worker within the department. This elevated level of service connects residents in need with resources faster while allowing patrol deputies to return to crime-fighting duties. The result: better outcomes, safer neighborhoods, and real savings for taxpayers. 

 

Enhancing Public Safety Through Responsible Leadership

To strengthen the critically important K-9 program, Sheriff Zoerner implemented a successful K-9 fundraising campaign. This initiative ensures Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office K-9s are fully staffed, properly trained, and well cared for—without increasing the tax burden. These highly trained dogs remain a proven, effective tool in keeping Kenosha County safe.

 

Strengthening Community Safety Through Treatment and Accountability  

Sheriff Zoerner partnered with Kenosha County Behavioral Health to expand mental health services and opioid and substance use disorder treatment for the in-custody population. By providing evidence-based medication, therapy, and treatment, Zoerner is reducing repeat offenses, improving jail safety, and protecting the community when offenders reenter society.

 

Protecting Our Children and Preserving Our Traditions  

Sheriff David Zoerner strengthened safety in Western Kenosha County by adding two additional School Resource Officers and expanding summer patrols in Salem Lakes—doubling school protection without increasing the county tax levy. Committed to proactive community engagement, Zoerner also launched the first-ever KESO Hunter Safety Program, partnering with the Wisconsin DNR to certify KESO personnel as instructors. As a certified instructor himself, Zoerner will personally teach a youth hunter safety class this spring—protecting our children while preserving Wisconsin’s outdoor traditions through education and responsibility.