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On September 13, 2025, the Coon Rapids Police Department celebrated National Police Woman Day, honoring the contributions of women in law enforcement. While the official observance falls on September 12 each year, the department chose this day to publicly recognize the vital role women play in policing.
National Police Woman Day was established in 1910 to commemorate Alice Stebbins Wells, who became the first female police officer in Los Angeles. Since then, the day has been observed annually to celebrate the dedication, skills, and achievements of women in law enforcement across the United States.
In Coon Rapids, women make up 22% of the department’s 70 sworn officers, meaning approximately 15 officers are female, according to a 2025 report from the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.). The department also includes a larger team of support staff, community service officers, and police reserve officers who collectively contribute to community safety and engagement.
The Coon Rapids Police Department highlighted the unique contributions women bring to the force, including expertise in communication, de-escalation, and community engagement. In a statement, the department expressed gratitude for their officers, emphasizing the essential role they play in maintaining public safety and fostering trust within the community.