Eric Wilde, Chief of Police

Wilde - Chief of Police Photo
Chief Eric Wilde began his law enforcement career in 1996 with the Johnson County, Kansas Sheriff’s Department in Olathe, Kansas. After serving for two years in Johnson County, Wilde made the decision to return to his roots in central Missouri and joined the Jefferson City Police Department in August of 1998.

During his career with the Jefferson City Police Department, Chief Wilde has served in many diverse assignments including: Patrol Officer, Narcotics Detective, Field Training Officer, SWAT Team member, Patrol Sergeant, Community Services Unit Supervisor, Planning and Development Sergeant, Patrol Lieutenant, Support Services Division Commander, and Operations Division Commander. Wilde was appointed as the Chief of Police for the Jefferson City Police Department in June of 2022.

Chief Wilde earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Central Missouri State University in December of 1995. He has also attended the Northwestern University Police Staff and Command College and Missouri Police Chief’s Command College, and has acquired numerous hours of specialized law enforcement training covering a broad and diverse curriculum over his lengthy career. 

Chief Wilde is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, Missouri Police Chief’s Association, National Tactical Officer’s Association, American Crime Prevention Institute, and Jefferson City Missouri Police Foundation.

In addition to his law enforcement career, Chief Wilde retired at the rank of Major in May of 2022 after 30 years of service as a military intelligence officer in the Missouri Army National Guard. During his military career Chief Wilde had many opportunities for overseas travel including military deployments to Baghdad Iraq in 2003, Kuwait from 2012-2013, and Amman Jordan from 2017-2018.

Chief Wilde enjoys being active in the Jefferson City community, and has served on numerous advisory boards, committees, and is a member of Jefferson City VFW Post 1003, American Legion Post 5, Jefferson City Elks Lodge #513, and Taos Knights of Columbus Council #6430. 

Contact Information
Email the Chief of Police
Phone: (573) 634-6334