Public Safety Administration
The Sturgis Department of Public Safety is led by an administrative team consisting of a Director of Public Safety, Deputy Director of Fire Operations and a Deputy Director of Police Operations. The administrative team works closely with other police, fire, and city departments to provide the best possible public safety service to the citizens of Sturgis.
Contact Information
Ryan Banaszak
Director of Public Safety
Phone:269.659.7261
Andy Strudwick
Deputy Director Fire Operations
Phone:269.659.7237
Damon Knapp
Deputy Director Police Operations
Phone:269.659.7236
Ericka Kruszka
Executive Administrative Assistant
Phone:269.659.7273
Ryan Banaszak has served in the role of Director of Public Safety since September of 2020 after serving as Deputy Police Chief for 5 years. During his career he has served in a variety of roles to include Detective Sergeant, School Resource Officer, Road Patrol Sergeant, Narcotics Detective and was a member of the St. Joseph County Multi-Jurisdictional Special Response Team. Director Banaszak is a graduate of the 276th Session of the FBI National Academy. Director Banaszak is involved in a variety of boards within the State and St. Joseph County to include the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police Legislative Committee, 911 Advisory Board and St. Joseph County Community Corrections Advisory Board.
Andy Strudwick moved into the role of Deputy Director of Public Safety in September of 2020. Prior to that appointment he served as the Deputy Fire Chief for eight years. During his career he has served in a variety of roles to include being a founding member of the Michigan 5th District Technical Rescue Team and was a member of the St. Joseph County Multi-Jurisdictional Special Response Team.
Damon Knapp has been with the Sturgis Police Department since 2002. Prior to being promoted to Deputy Director Knapp served as an Administrative Lieutenant and previously as a shift Sergeant. During his career Knapp has served in a variety of roles to include school resource officer and the lead Evidence Tech of the St. Joseph County Major Crimes Task Force.