Kate Peterson (left) and Sheri Fyle are officers on the Pequot Lakes Police Department.
LADIES IN LAW ENFORCEMENT
PHOTOS BY JOEY HALVORSON
K
By JENNY HOLMES
ate Petersen and fellow officer Sheri Fyle both serve on the Pequot Lakes Police Department and have continued to blaze a trail for women in the law enforcement profession, proving that gender knows no boundaries. 18 Fall 2016 | her voice
It was during her first year at Central Lakes College, pursuing a degree in accounting, when Kate realized she wanted to be a police officer. Ten years later, not only is Kate one of a handful of female officers serving in Crow Wing County, she is also one of a handful of female firefighters in the county. Sheri Fyle had grown up in the world of emergency medical services, admiring her father who served 30-plus years with the Monticello Fire Department. However, it was the medical side of EMS that eventually attracted her. During paramedic school, a friend suggested she also check out the possibility of a law enforcement career. Somewhat hesitant, Sheri signed up as a reserve officer. During her first
shift on Halloween night, she recalls children being instantly attracted to the squad car – offering candy and taking pictures. It was that moment, she knew she had found a calling. Today, a paramedic, first responder and police officer, Sheri said the careers truly complement one another. “Typically when I’m working with the police department, I’m the first on scene for a medical. It’s nice to be able to reassure people that you’re also a paramedic. Some officers like to get their hands dirty, while others would rather stand back and wait for medical personnel. It’s nice to be able to serve in all capacities.” Sheri’s depth of experience goes even further. Prior to being hired as a police