Coon Rapids Police Department Reaches Full Staffing For First Time In Nearly Five Years

Coon Rapids Police Department Reaches Full Staffing For First Time In Nearly Five Years

Coon Rapids, MN — For the first time since 2020, the Coon Rapids Police Department is operating at full strength. During the City Council meeting on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, two newly hired officers — Cheyenne Abear and Mitch Guskovich — were officially sworn in, marking a significant milestone in the department’s ongoing efforts to rebuild and retain its workforce.

Coon Rapids PD Chief Brad Steiner

Police Chief Brad Steiner introduced the officers, both of whom have completed the department’s field training program and are now fully certified to serve the community.

Officer Cheyenne Abear, a graduate of Brainerd High School and Hamline University, brings a unique combination of discipline and teamwork developed through her background as a Division I collegiate hockey player. Her commitment to service and public safety, Chief Steiner noted, is already evident through her training and community engagement efforts.

Officer Mitch Guskovich, a native of Fridley and graduate of Century College, joins the department with valuable prior experience from the Columbia Heights Police Department. There, he served as a field training officer and was also certified as a drone pilot — an increasingly vital tool in modern policing and public safety operations.

Coon Rapids Mayor Jerry Koch administered the oath of office during Tuesday’s meeting, praising the department’s dedication and the professionalism of its newest officers. “Reaching full staffing for the first time in nearly five years is not only a win for our police department, but a win for the entire community,” Koch said.

The swearing-in comes at a time when police departments across the country continue to face recruitment and retention challenges. Coon Rapids officials have credited a mix of competitive hiring practices, department culture, and community support for helping to stabilize the force.

With the addition of Officers Abear and Guskovich, the department looks ahead to continuing its mission of community-centered policing and responsive public safety service.

MinneapoliMedia