Against All Odds: Racine Man Transforms Life and Becomes Deputy Sheriff

Kenosha, Wis. – For Endel Williams, 50, that second chance is more than just a fresh start—it’s a full-circle moment. The once-troubled teen and twice-convicted felon will be sworn in as a Deputy Sheriff for the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office on March 31, 2025, marking an extraordinary turnaround.

Williams’ past was anything but picture-perfect. His troubles with the law began early, leading to convictions in 1993 and 1997 for drug-related offenses. A nine-year prison sentence, of which he served five years, could have been the end of his story. Instead, it became the foundation for a remarkable transformation. He committed himself to change, focusing on education, self-discipline, and community service. By November 2022, his efforts were recognized when Governor Tony Evers granted him a pardon, paving the way for his new career.

Sheriff David Zoerner admits that hiring Williams was not an easy decision. “If you’d asked me at any time in my career before meeting Deputy Williams whether I would ever consider hiring a convicted felon, I would have said absolutely not,” Zoerner said. “But he gave one of the best interviews we’ve ever had. His story, his passion, his dedication—it was all undeniable.”

Williams’ journey to law enforcement was not handed to him. He endured the same rigorous hiring process as any other recruit, including a physical fitness test, a written exam, an intensive background check, a psychiatric evaluation, and a panel interview. He passed them all.

His remarkable journey caught the attention of multiple law enforcement agencies. Williams was offered positions with four different departments, all of whom saw potential in his unique perspective and commitment to change. However, he ultimately chose the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office, citing the relationships he built during his time in the police academy. “Chief Deputy Justin Miller and Deputy Preston really stood out to me,” he said. “Their humility, their leadership, and the way they engaged with the class made a huge impression.”

Williams isn’t just a man with a past—he’s a man with a purpose. He founded “Choices Change Lives,” a vocational ministry that helps former offenders find stability and purpose. Through his work, he has assisted thousands in their transition from incarceration to productive society members. He has spoken at correctional facilities, community centers, and schools, sharing his personal journey in hopes of inspiring others to make better choices. Despite his troubled past, he is now a mentor to young people who might be heading down the wrong path. “I don’t do this for money or recognition,” Williams said. “I do it because I care. If my story can help one person avoid making the mistakes I made, then it’s worth it.

”His journey has been filled with both struggles and triumphs, and he credits much of his success to the people who supported him along the way. He acknowledges the guidance of mentors like Jim Schatzman and Sherry Hartog, individuals who believed in him when few others did. “They helped me see that my past didn’t have to dictate my future,” he said. “They encouraged me to dream bigger than I ever thought possible.

”While some may question his ability to enforce the law given his past, Williams embraces the challenge. “I understand people’s skepticism,” he said. “But I paid my dues. I’m here because I earned it, and I’ll prove it every day on the job.

”His story isn’t just about redemption—it’s about inspiration. Williams acknowledges his troubled upbringing but refuses to use it as an excuse. “I take accountability for my actions. My past shaped me, but it doesn’t define me,” he said. “The choices I made as a young man were reckless, but I’ve worked hard to change the narrative of my life.”

The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office stands behind him. “This job isn’t for everyone, and he knows that,” Sheriff Zoerner said. “But we believe in him. And if he succeeds, it will be because of his own merit.”

Williams also knows the road ahead won’t be easy. “This is a high-stakes job,” he said. “I know I’ll have to work twice as hard to earn the trust of my colleagues and the community, but I welcome that challenge.”

For those who doubt, Williams has one request: “Get to know me before you criticize me. I’m an open book.”

As he prepares to wear the badge, one thing is clear: Endel Williams isn’t just walking through the doors of the Sheriff’s Office as a new deputy—he’s walking through them as a testament to perseverance, redemption, and the power of second chances.