Sergeant Matt Hartfield reflects on stint as Denmark officer-in-charge as he takes on new role as prosecutor

After six years at the helm of the Denmark police station, Sgt Matt Hartfield is moving on to a new challenge.

Sgt Hartfield, who was Denmark’s officer-in-charge since 2016, finished in the role last week as he prepares to start his new position as a police prosecutor in Albany.

Reflecting on his six years in Denmark, Sgt Hartfield said he had thoroughly enjoyed the stint which came with plenty of challenges.

“I’ve loved my time in Denmark,” Sgt Hartfield said.

“I’ve met a lot of good people and made some great friendships. A big thanks to all the volunteers and support people in the community.

“It has been pretty hard with some of the incidents that we’ve had to attend, but the support of those people has made my job a lot easier. Jody and the kids have had to put up with a lot as well.”

Sgt Hartfield said one of his key focuses during his time in Denmark was response to critical incidents.

He was heavily involved in the response to the devastating Denmark bushfire that destroyed four homes in February.

“When I first got here emergency management was pretty ordinary and we spent a lot of time getting those structures in place,” Sgt Hartfield said.

“The response to critical incidents and emphasis on helping community members is a lot better.

“The Denmark community developing good response mechanisms to different matters and the relationships we now have to make sure they work and are tried and tested is something I’m proud of.”

Sgt Hartfield, who chalks up 30 years in the WA Police Force in June next year, starts his new role as a police prosecutor on Monday.

“It’s a very big change from what I have been doing,” he said.

“There is plenty to learn but I’ll approach it with open eyes, give it 100 per cent and do my best.”

Acting Sgt Chris Macaulay will serve as Denmark’s OIC until the appointment of a replacement for Sgt Hartfield.