HUTCHINSON, Kan. (KSNW) -- The Hutchinson Police Department has paid tribute to its first female officer.
Ellen M. Penner, 90, died Nov. 8 at Pleasant View Home in Inman. The Hutchinson Police Department posted a tribute to Penner Thursday.
Penner served in the department from 1954 to 1958. The department highlighted a feature article in the Hutchinson News from the time period that noted that she and the department's other female officer, who was assigned foot patrol, walked 12 miles daily.
The department notes that it currently has four female officers, including one with the rank of sergeant, as well as several other women on career paths toward law enforcement careers and working in the department's police service aide program.
Thank you, Officer Penner, for your commitment to law enforcement and the community you served. 70 years ago, you paved the way for all future female officers in Hutchinson. Your legacy will continue to live on through future generations of officers."
Services for Ellen Penner will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 16, at Elliot Chapel, 1219 N. Main St., Hutchinson.