Detective Matthew Sutton appointed as next Chief Deputy Sheriff at the Vernon County Sheriff’s Department

Nov. 18, 2025

VIROQUA, Wis. — On Tuesday, Nov. 4, The Vernon County Public Safety Committee unanimously approved the appointment of Detective Matthew Sutton as the new Chief Deputy Sheriff, marking a new chapter during a period of significant transition for the department.

Sheriff Roy Torgerson praised Sutton’s extensive experience and steady leadership during the meeting. “Today is a very special day,” Torgerson said. “Chief Deputy Campbell, after 26 years of dedicated service, will be retiring December 12. That is, in addition to two others, I have 98 years of experience leaving this building in the same pay period. So we have our work cut out for us to recruit and retain the very best.”

Torgerson emphasized Sutton was “highly recommended,” adding, “When I’m up here (pointing up), you know he’s going to be right here. He’s never up here, he’s never down here—he’s steady and dependable.”

Sutton, who has served almost 25 years with the sheriff’s department and nearly two decades as a detective, told the committee, “I’ve been with Sheriff Department started in July of 2001…was promoted to patrol deputy, where I worked for approximately two years. In 2006 I was promoted to Detective, investigator from 2006 until recent, appointment as chief deputy. So, 18 or 19 years as a detective—24 going on 25 years with the Sheriff’s Department.” Sutton is a graduate of Winona State University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

Committee members cited Sutton’s proven ability to handle complex investigations, with Torgerson noting, “Matt does get some of those boring jobs, but those are so important and take a lot of work, such as Matt has investigated lots of white-collar crimes, burglaries, sexual assaults, and child abuse cases.”

Torgerson said there were numerous quality candidates that applied for the position but Suttons track record and respect in the department made the decision easier.

The motion by the committee to appoint Sutton passed unanimously.

Sutton expressed gratitude for the support and outlined his transition plan. “I do have some [cases] that I’m trying to close out. Some may be passed on, divided out to the other two detectives, or the eventually new detective, but for the most part, I’m winding them down and trying to close them out,” he said.

As the department navigates significant retirements and change, the committee and department heads expressed optimism that Sutton will continue to uphold the county’s strong standard for public safety.