David J. Mahoney is an esteemed law enforcement professional with over 41 years of experience. He served four terms as Dane County Sheriff, first elected in November 2006, becoming the 52nd Dane County Sheriff. Throughout his distinguished career, David has made significant contributions to public safety and community trust. 

David’s career in law enforcement began with the Village of Cross Plains Police Department and the City of Middleton Police Department before joining the Dane County Sheriff’s Office, where he dedicated 40 years across various divisions, including Security Services, Support Services, and Field Services. His extensive experience also includes serving twelve years as a local, state, and national labor executive officer. 

David has taken a leadership role locally and nationally on the issue of incarceration of our nations mentally ill. He has written or co-written multiple articles and has appeared in the media locally and nationally on the subject. 

David is a graduate of multiple prestigious programs, including the 92nd National Sheriffs Institute Executive Level Management Course, the 234th Session of the FBI National Academy for Executive Management, and the 36th Session of the FBI National Executive Institute (NEI) for Executive Management. He also completed the Leadership in Police Organizations Course sponsored by the International Chiefs of Police. 

Throughout his career, David has been recognized for his exceptional service and leadership. His accolades include the Distinguished Citizen Award from the Boy Scouts of America, Hometown Hero First Responder of the Year by the WI State Assembly, Medal of Merit from the National Sheriffs Association, and the Shining Star Sheriff by the Major County Sheriffs’ Association, among others. He has also participated in national delegations to Israel and China to exchange law enforcement ideas and experiences. 

David has served on multiple national, state, and local committees, including the National Sheriffs’ Association, Major County Sheriffs of America, and the Governor’s Council on Wisconsin Homeland Security. He is also actively involved in community organizations, such as the Dane County United Way Communities of Color/Law Enforcement Leader’s Council and the Glacier’s Edge Council of Boy Scouts of America. 

Currently, David is the Senior Expert for Falcon, Inc., where he continues to apply his extensive knowledge and experience to advance public safety.