The Mishawaka Police Department takes pride in employing the most eligible officers to join their team. The Mishawaka Police Department ensures that strong and determined officers are accepted to protect and serve the citizens of Mishawaka. Mishawaka’s newest officers, James Bradberry and Matthew Denton, will provide quality service and a powerful sense of safety and honor the legacy of the force.
Bradberry and Denton were sworn in as Probationary Patrol Officers on July 9th, 2024, at the Board of Public Works and Safety meeting held at 10 am. Mishawaka Mayor Dave Wood, Chief Ken Witkowski, and the Board of Public Works congratulated Bradberry and Denton on their commitment to keeping citizens safe.
James Bradberry and his wife reside in the Michiana area with their one year-old daughter. Bradberry has an impressive education and background. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Regent University, as well as having served with the U.S. Coast Guard. He received a secret level of security clearance along with multiple awards during his years of service. Bradberry started as a police officer in January 2019 with the Elkhart County Sheriff. He resided with the Elkhart County Sheriff until August 2022, and he continued his police career with the Nappanee Police Department.
Matthew Denton lives with his wife and to daughters in Indiana. Denton started his impressive career back in June 2016, when he graduated from Howe Military Academy in Howe, Indiana. He joined the United States Army Reserves in 2015 and is currently still active. Denton started his police career in April 2020 with the Biloxi Police Department in Biloxi, Mississippi. Denton resided there until June 2022 when he decided to move closer to home. He transferred to the Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department in June of 2022.
Bradberry and Denton are supreme additions to the Mishawaka police force. They will sustain the legacy the Mishawaka Police Department has upheld for generations. The MPD strives towards the community’s commitment to safety; Bradberry and Denton will not shy away from that promise. Their swearing-in will serve as a huge advancement towards their growth in the police field, as they will highlight their commitment and determination to identify, prioritize, and solve problems for the safety of Mishawaka.