City of Fond du Lac Police Department Announces Promotions

Fond du Lac Chief of Police Aaron Goldstein has announce the promotion of Officer Joseph Belisle and Officer Shelby Birkholz to the rank of Lieutenant, effective January 2, 2026. These promotions recognize their exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to public safety, and dedication to the residents of Fond du Lac.

Lieutenant Joseph Belisle

Lieutenant Belisle joined the Fond du Lac Police Department in 2015 and has spent the past decade serving with distinction. His career includes extensive tactical and instructional experience, including roles as a SWAT Tactical Team Operator, Tactical Field Force Team Member and Team Leader, and certified instructor in ALERRT – Active Attack Integrated Response, PepperBall, Taser 10, WRAP Restraint System, handgun, rifle, riot shield, and riot baton.

Lt. Belisle earned a bachelor’s degree in justice and public safety from Concordia University Wisconsin. In 2025, he was honored as the Field Training Officer of the Year by the Wisconsin Field Training Officers Association. Recognition that speaks not only to his expertise, but also to the patience and genuine mentorship he provides to developing Patrol Officers.

He will serve as a Night Shift Supervisor within the Patrol Division.

Lieutenant Shelby Birkholz

Lieutenant Birkholz joined FDLPD in 2024 as a lateral transfer, bringing seven years of prior law enforcement experience. Her background reflects a strong foundation in both frontline response and specialized assignments, serving as a Field Training Officer, Officer in Charge, Community Liaison Officer, Sensitive Crimes Officer, and Evidence Technician. She began her career as a Community Service Officer and Dispatcher, giving her a broad and practical understanding of public safety operations.

Lt. Birkholz holds an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Fox Valley Technical College and has completed advanced leadership coursework, basic SWAT school, and Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training. She will also serve as a Night Shift Supervisor in the Patrol Division.

Chief Goldstein shared his confidence in both new lieutenants, stating: “Their promotions reflect not just what they have accomplished, but who they are, compassionate leaders who lift others up and make our department better every single day.  Joe and Shelby are the kind of leaders others want to follow, calm in the hard moments, thoughtful in the quiet ones, and unwavering in their commitment to serve with integrity, courage, and heart.”