Vernon County Sheriff Deputy Jason Crume honored for 37 years of service with special badge

Nov. 21, 2025

VIROQUA, Wis. — Lieutenant Jason Crume, a veteran of the Vernon County Sheriff’s Office, was recently honored with a surprise badge pinning ceremony recognizing his 37 years of service and paying tribute to the legacy of his late father.

The ceremony, held at the Sheriff’s Office, was described as a “very special day” and included family, friends, and co-workers who surprised Lieutenant Crume. He is scheduled to retire on December 19th after decades of dedicated service to the citizens and visitors of Vernon County.

The unique badge pinning served specifically as an opportunity to honor Deputy Jody Crume, Lieutenant Jason Crume’s father, who served with the Sheriff’s Office from 1972 until his untimely passing in 1987.

To recognize this familial connection, Sheriff Roy Torgerson authorized Lieutenant Crume to wear badge #54 in memory of his father. This symbolic gesture is temporary, as he will wear the badge until “sunset on Wednesday”. Afterward, he will revert to his current badge #5, which was also worn by Deputy Jody Crume until his death.

The significance of badge #5 stems from its history within the department. It had been purposely reserved by previous Sheriffs Banta, Cary, and Spears until Lieutenant Crume gained enough seniority to obtain that number.

Lieutenant Jason Crume began his service with the Sheriff’s Office in 1988. The ceremony featured several speakers, including Sheriff Torgerson, Lieutenant Crume, retired Sheriffs Geoffrey Banta, Gene Cary, and John Spears, Correctional Officer Randy Crume, and La Farge Fire Chief/Retired Assistant District Attorney Phil Stittleburg.