Injured in Hit-and-Run, Officer Paul Dilger Honored for His Service

Brookfield Police Officer Paul Dilger brushed away tears Tuesday as he accepted a resolution honoring his law enforcement career, which was cut short by injuries caused by a hit-and-run driver.

Dilger and his wife Linda and son Bryce were supported by a large number of police colleagues who congratulated him with hugs and handshakes at Tuesday night's Common Council meeting.

Dilger, who joined the Brookfield Police Department in April 2003, was struck while walking on the side of North Avenue with two fellow officers shortly after midnight Dec. 11, 2009.

He suffered a head injury and was treated at Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital.

The driver didn't stop but turned herself in three days later, saying she might be responsible because she noticed damage and had thought she hit a deer until she heard about the officer.

Christine Druecke, 53, pleaded guilty to felony hit-and-run causing injury and will be sentenced Jan. 5. The conviction is on a reduced charge that carries a maximum nine-month county jail sentence. The original felony hit-and-run causing substantial injury carried a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.

Common Council President Mark Nelson read the resolution that praised Dilger for his work as a defensive and arrest tactics instructor and late watch patrol work group.

"We wish to express our gratitude to you, and to your wife, for really your sacrifice to the City of Brookfield in the line of duty," Mayor Steve Ponto said.

Brookfield Police Chief Dan Tushaus said that Dilger's shortened career was "so unfortunate and undescribably horrible for those who were involved."

He said Dilger tried to rehabilitate himself to return to patrol but was unable. The city has not objected to his pursuit of duty disability.

"You really did work hard, Paul, and I'm sorry it didn't work out," the chief said. "But we wish you the best and you'll always be a member of our family. Thank you."