Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Accomplishments
Timeline
Generic

Michael Atkins

Hopkinsville

Summary

Seasoned and decorated Law Enforcement Executive and Military Veteran with over 36 years of combined service in public safety and national defense. Brings a powerful leadership foundation from 20 years of distinguished U.S. military service, including two combat tours in Iraq, followed by 17+ years in civilian law enforcement. Currently serving as Administration Captain with the Hopkinsville Police Department, overseeing critical administrative functions including Records management, Procurement, and the agency’s Public Information outlet. Demonstrated success in prior roles as Detective Sergeant, Patrol Sergeant, and Public Information Officer, with a track record of leading major investigations, managing crisis communications, and mentoring officers at all levels. Recognized with multiple commendations, including the Chief’s Award, Valor Award, and Life-Saving Award, for excellence in service, bravery, and impact. Offers a blend of tactical expertise, administrative insight, and a forward-thinking approach to organizational leadership and community-based policing.

Overview

18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Administration Captain

Hopkinsville Police Department
08.2024 - Current
  • Direct and oversee the administrative section within the department, including records, public information outlet, building facilities and procurement.
  • Lead strategic planning initiatives, assist with managing departmental budgeting, and long-term policy development.
  • Coordinate with executive leadership to align operational goals with citywide public safety objectives.
  • Represent the department in high-level meetings, community forums, and interagency partnerships.

Detective Sergeant

Hopkinsville Police Department
10.2023 - 08.2024
  • Supervised and mentored detectives in investigative techniques and case development.
  • Coordinated with outside agencies to share intelligence and lead multi-jurisdictional investigations.
  • Led warrant application processes and ensured legal compliance with search and seizure procedures.
  • Provided strategic oversight on major criminal investigations, suspect apprehensions, and case resolution.
  • Reviewed case files, guided junior detectives, and ensured procedural and evidentiary integrity.

Patrol Sergeant

Hopkinsville Police Department
10.2022 - 10.2023
  • Directed patrol units, assigned duties, and managed shift operations for optimal field coverage.
  • Responded to high-priority calls, conducted crime scene supervision, and ensured officer safety.
  • Conducted performance evaluations and implemented corrective training when necessary.
  • Led community outreach efforts to improve police–public relationships.
  • Oversaw traffic control and safety operations for large-scale city events.

Public Information Officer

Hopkinsville Police Department
10.2019 - 10.2022
  • Managed all internal and external communications, acting as the official media liaison.
  • Drafted press releases, managed social media presence, and maintained website content.
  • Organized press briefings, interviews, and public events to convey departmental transparency.
  • Developed marketing collateral and public awareness campaigns to support crime prevention efforts.
  • Ensured compliance with public records laws and internal communication policies.

Police Motor Officer

Hopkinsville Police Department
06.2015 - 10.2019
  • Performed traffic enforcement duties with emphasis on DUI detection, reckless driving, and school zone safety.
  • Escorted dignitaries, funeral processions, and large public events to ensure secure and orderly travel routes.
  • Participated in specialized motorcycle formations for parades, ceremonies, and official functions.
  • Responded quickly to emergency calls and traffic collisions, often arriving faster than patrol units due to maneuverability.
  • Conducted motor vehicle crash investigations and wrote detailed reports for criminal or civil proceedings.
  • Provided public education on traffic safety, motorcycle awareness, and accident prevention.
  • Completed Motor Officer School and Tactical Motor School, developing advanced riding and pursuit skills under high-risk conditions.
  • Assisted with VIP security escorts and coordinated inter-jurisdictional traffic operations.

Patrol Officer

Hopkinsville Police Department
10.2007 - 06.2015
  • Enforced compliance with laws and regulations to ensure community safety.
  • Conducted regular patrols to deter crime and provide visible presence in assigned areas.
  • Responded promptly to emergency calls, coordinating with local agencies for effective resolution.
  • Investigated incidents, collected evidence, and prepared detailed reports for legal proceedings.
  • Provided support during community events, fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and citizens.
  • Collaborated with community organizations to address public safety concerns and improve community relations.

Education

Criminal Justice

Central Texas College
Killeen, TX

Criminal Justice

Bethel College
Hampton, VA

Criminal Justice

Austin Peay State University
Clarksville, TN

Skills

  • Public & Media Relations
  • Community Engagement
  • Conflict De-escalation
  • Patrol Supervision & Operations
  • Criminal Investigations
  • Officer Training & Development
  • Crisis Communications
  • Time Management & Scheduling
  • Policy Compliance
  • Strategic Planning

Certification

  • Master PIO Certificate
  • Intermediate / Advanced SWAT School
  • SWAT Team Leader Development Course
  • APS | PTO | Motor Officer School
  • Tactical Motor School

Accomplishments

  • Chief’s Award – Recognition for exemplary service and leadership
  • Valor Award – Commendation for bravery in the line of duty
  • Life-Saving Award – Honored for taking decisive action that saved a life
  • Honor Guard – Selected for ceremonial unit representing departmental pride and discipline

Timeline

Administration Captain

Hopkinsville Police Department
08.2024 - Current

Detective Sergeant

Hopkinsville Police Department
10.2023 - 08.2024

Patrol Sergeant

Hopkinsville Police Department
10.2022 - 10.2023

Public Information Officer

Hopkinsville Police Department
10.2019 - 10.2022

Police Motor Officer

Hopkinsville Police Department
06.2015 - 10.2019

Patrol Officer

Hopkinsville Police Department
10.2007 - 06.2015

Criminal Justice

Bethel College

Criminal Justice

Austin Peay State University

Criminal Justice

Central Texas College

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Michael Atkins