Meet Matt Tate

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Matt Tate has spent his career serving the people of Sauk County and communities across Wisconsin with clear focus on public safety, earned trust, and doing the job the right way - with experience, accountability and respect for the people he serves. 

Tate currently serves as a Patrol Sergeant with the Sauk County Sheriff’s Office, where he supervises multiple deputies, helps manage day-to-day operations, and works to ensure law enforcement services are delivered effectively and responsibly to the public.

With nearly 15 years in law enforcement, Tate has built experience at every level of the job. Throughout his career, he has advanced through the ranks and served in several leadership roles, including Field Training Officer, Emergency Vehicle Operation and Control Instructor, Vehicle Contacts Instructor, and Detective Sergeant. As a Detective Sergeant, Tate oversaw complex investigations, ensured proper evidence collection, prepared cases for prosecution, trained fellow officers, and handled key administrative responsibilities.

Most recently, Tate served as a Certified Advanced K-9 Handler for Sauk County and has spent nearly a decade working with and leading K-9 programs. Behind the scenes, managing a K-9 program requires strict training standards, clear policies, oversight of equipment and liability, budget responsibility, and long-term planning. That experience has shaped Tate’s approach to leadership: thoughtful, prepared, and focused on the bigger picture.

Before and alongside his law enforcement career, Tate has worked as a driver education instructor and substitute teacher, engaging with youth across the community. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and Sociology and is a graduate of River Valley High School.

Outside of work, Tate enjoys spending time with his wife, Bethany, and their five dogs, including his retired K-9 partner, Jennings. He’s an avid outdoorsman who enjoys hunting and values time spent in the communities he calls home.

Tate is running for Sheriff to support deputies, provide accountable leadership, and bring proven experience to leading the Sauk County Sheriff’s Office with professionalism and integrity.

Experience that citizens and deputies can trust.