First Responder: Sergeant came to MPD to make a difference

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Why did you decide to be a first responder? I chose a career in law enforcement for several different reasons. It was my desire to be of service to the citizens of the community by upholding the law and protecting those who were unable to protect themselves. It is my desire to provide a safe environment and excellent service to all citizens.

Why Maricopa? While working as a detective with MCAO, my supervisor informed me the city which he was living in voted to establish their own police department. I spoke to several colleagues who advised this would be an opportunity of a lifetime. Another past supervisor stated this would be a profound event and would give me an opportunity to assist in the development and formulation of a new police department. I believed this would provide me an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of future employees and to the citizens of the community.

Favorite part of the job: There are so many favorite parts of this job. I am most thankful that I have been given the opportunity to provide a victim with closure when solving a crime.

Least favorite part of the job: My least favorite of this job is when I have had to advise a person that their loved one has passed away.

Scariest moment: One of the most disturbing events I have witnessed since becoming a police officer is being on a crime scene where an officer was shot, and recognizing the officer was already deceased prior to being taken to the hospital.

Bravest act you’ve witnessed: One of my most proud moments as a police officer was seeing an officer revive a child after going under water.

What you wish all residents knew about your department: I would like the citizens of our community to judge our police department based on how we service this community and not by practices of other departments. Our officers are very concerned about our relationship with the citizens of Maricopa and we strive to provide fair and impartial police service to all mankind. We are a professional and mission-oriented organization.

Mary Turner
Rank: Sergeant
Department: Patrol Division, Maricopa Police Department
Hometown: Butler, Alabama
Residence: Maricopa
Education: B.S. degree, Tuskegee University
Hobbies: Boot camp, indoor cycling, karate, hiking, traveling, skiing and enjoying time with my friends and family
Years on the job: 18

This story appeared in the February issue of InMaricopa News.