Citizen Potawatomi Nation Police Department honored CPN Police Officer Mike Mckechnie for his dedication to the department and excellent police work. A traffic stop initiated by Mckechnie resulted in the end of a multi-state crime spree.
“Officer Mckechnie is a very hard worker,” said Major Kurt Shirley, CPN Police Department. “He goes out and looks for ways to protect and serve; He’s very active in what he does.”
A routine stop for traffic violations resulted in Mckechnie determining that the vehicle was stolen and that the suspects were using bogus names. Mckechnie removed the suspects from the vehicle and placed them under arrest. While conducting an inventory of the vehicle, officers found stolen merchandise and materials used to manufacture methamphetamine.
“It takes all of us working together to get the job done,” said Mckechnie. “We have backup and great teamwork in everything we do.”
Officers helping with the arrest and investigation include Mike Hendrickson, Russell Ross, Detective Lee Minick, Indian Child Welfare detective Latrenda Sanders and reserve officer Angie Dawkins. Officer Mckechnie has been with the CPNPD for two years.
“I am happy to see our agencies working together,” said Judge Lujan, CPN Court. “This is an effort for the courts, the police department and ICW to work together and make our community safer.”
Photo cutline: Officer Mckechnie was honored for excelent police work. From left to right: Judge Lujan, Officer Mckechnie and Police Chief Jim Collard.