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Over the course of decades with Lakes Area Police Department Detective Mike Merchlewitz received numerous personal letters of thanks, career awards and other recognition which he truly valued, he explains. His motivation to wear the uniform was founded on helping others and then, as a detective, in “bringing a measure of closure in challenging circumstances.”  

Getting a thank-you now and again made the job he’d wanted since he was a very young kid extra meaningful.

Merchlewitz said the variety present in a cop’s workday was another reason he enjoyed being in law enforcement. 

From working with school kids as a school resource officer, to mentoring and training new officers, even assisting the Secret Service when the Swedish King and Queen visited, opportunities that arose in the job for being involved in the greater community, were endless.

Things have changed in the 33 years Merchlewitz has served, but as the saying goes, some things stayed the same. For example, he began as a Community Service Officer, which is still the way things still often work here.  In 1994 it was just the Lindstrom Police Department,  and operations would not merge with Chisago City to become “Lakes Area”  for another 10 years.  

Unlike the current shortage of law enforcement officer applicants creating the need to attract candidates,  Merchlewitz recalls being one of hundreds when he started, and hiring was super competitive.    

His father served part time in the Cottage Grove department while also employed fulltime as a mechanic. and having a dad who walked the walk and also did what he loved, was an inspiration to young Mike; who still stresses that if you have a purpose and passion for anything, “...don’t let anyone convince you it cannot be achieved.”\

Thirty days from now the uniform will be hung up but Merchlewitz is not anticipating any melancholy.  He has “...deep gratitude, tremendous pride and memories that I will carry with me into the next chapter of my life,” he declared.  

The people, partnerships and unique moments gave meaning to his law enforcement career and he has nothing but gratitude for the trust placed in him;  and the support, guidance and camaraderie  that came from his fellow officers and leadership.

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