It’s another day on the job for Officer Jaime Nielsen.
Whether it’s an accident or traffic stop, she’s ready to respond, along with the other officers on the Oswego Police Department.
However, last week, it was only these five female officers unexpectedly taking on the night shift, together.
“I walked down the hallway and there they all sat, and it was amazing,” said Chief Tory DeCaire.
It was an uncommon sight to see in the city and nationwide.
“We don’t often get all of us in the same place at the same time,” said Nielsen, who has been with the department for five years.
“It wasn’t really different,” said Officer Michaela Teifke, who has been with the department for three years. “We all worked the same way as we would with the guys.
Although it may have been a typical night, it captured the community’s attention.
“I think just overall proud to have a good amount of female officers working in the city, and hopefully we continue to have more,” said Officer Chelsea Giovo, who has been with the department for four years.
The police chief says out of the 47 officers, there are only five females— the most they’ve ever had.
“We’ve realized over the years that police come in shapes and sizes,” said DeCaire. “It doesn’t matter how big you are or how strong you are. Sometimes the best tool is the tool you have between your ears.
According to be National Institute of Justice, fewer than 13% of law enforcement officers are women.
“It’s a male-dominant work field, and when you have females working with you, it’s not like it’s any different,” said Officer Mariel Schickling, who has been with the department for one year. “It’s just another co-worker, but it’s important to stick together.”
And also be role models for others.
“We hope that some younger generation of girls saw that photo and said, ‘I want to pursue my dreams and to see powerful women in a workforce working together,’” said Giovo.
“Some day, I hope there’s more female officers,” said Sgt. Lorie Burger. “I’ve been on 11 years and in the time I’ve been working I’ve never been on a shift with this many female officers. Can’t wait to see what the future holds for us.”