Michigan City Police Department

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Michigan City Police Department Law Enforcement Agency

🚔 CERTIFIED POLICE OFFICERS WANTED — JOIN MCPD! 🚔SAME MISSION. A GREATER VIEW.Already serving in law enforcement but loo...
10/30/2026

🚔 CERTIFIED POLICE OFFICERS WANTED — JOIN MCPD! 🚔

SAME MISSION. A GREATER VIEW.

Already serving in law enforcement but looking for a new opportunity? The Michigan City Police Department is actively recruiting experienced, certified police officers (Tier 1) interested in a lateral move.

We recognize the experience, training, and dedication you bring to the profession. That's why MCPD offers an EXPEDITED HIRING PROCESS FOR LATERAL OFFICERS, competitive compensation, and benefits that recognize your prior qualifying years of service.

💰 COMPETITIVE PAY — YOUR EXPERIENCE COUNTS!

MCPD recognizes qualifying prior law enforcement service when determining salary placement, longevity, and vacation benefits.

✅ 3.5% Salary Increase in 2028

2028 SALARY EXAMPLES — 1ST CLASS PATROLMAN:

🔹 3 Years of Service: $73,227.05
🔹 20 Years of Service: $85,313.06

These examples reflect projected base pay for the stated years of service. Additional longevity, shift differential, and specialty pay may apply.

💵 RETIREMENT & BENEFITS

✅ City-Paid PERF Employee Contributions Beginning in 2027
✅ Health, Dental, Vision, and Other Eligible Benefits Beginning DAY ONE for Lateral Hires
✅ Take-Home Vehicle Program (Off-Duty Use)
✅ Longevity and Vacation Recognition Based on Qualifying Prior Service
✅ Sick Day Sell-Back — Up to 10 Unused Sick Days Paid Out in December
✅ Clothing Allowance

📅 Patrol Division — 12-Hour Shifts Beginning in 2027

🔹 One-year trial schedule
🔹 Every other weekend off
🔹 Day Shift Differential: Additional 3%
🔹 Night Shift Differential: Additional 4%

Services Division — 10-Hour Workdays

👮 SPECIALIZED ASSIGNMENTS & CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

MCPD offers opportunities to develop your career through specialized assignments, including:

🔹 Detective Bureau and Drug Task Force
🔹 SWAT and Specialized Response
🔹 School Resource Officers (SRO)
🔹 Traffic Division and Accident Reconstruction
🔹 K-9 and other specialized programs
🔹 Training, Instruction, and Leadership Opportunities

Additional compensation is available for qualifying specialty assignments, certifications, and education.

🌊 WHY MICHIGAN CITY?

Located along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, Michigan City offers a unique combination of lakefront living, community involvement, and professional opportunity.

Our department serves a diverse community, with opportunities to build relationships, take on specialized assignments, and make a meaningful impact.

Whether you're looking for professional growth, a different work schedule, or a department that values your experience, we'd like to hear from you.

📲 READY TO MAKE THE MOVE?

APPLY TODAY — YOU WILL BE CONTACTED!

Qualified lateral applicants can take advantage of our expedited hiring process.

🔗 https://police.michigancityin.gov/become-an-officer/apply/

📞 QUESTIONS ABOUT A LATERAL TRANSFER?

Asst. Chief Dave Cooney — Chief of Services
Michigan City Police Department
(219) 874-3221, Ext. 1082
📧 [email protected]

SERVE. PROTECT. BELONG.

A STRONGER COMMUNITY TOGETHER.

🌊 Lakefront. Community. Opportunity.

🚔 NOW HIRING — JOIN THE MICHIGAN CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT! 🚔2nd Testing Opportunity - Fall 2026Are you ready to start a re...
10/28/2026

🚔 NOW HIRING — JOIN THE MICHIGAN CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT! 🚔

2nd Testing Opportunity - Fall 2026

Are you ready to start a rewarding career in law enforcement? The Michigan City Police Department is looking for dedicated, motivated individuals who want to make a difference while building a career with competitive pay, excellent benefits, and opportunities for advancement.

📅 NEXT NEW HIRE TESTING EVENT

Saturday, November 14, 2026

🚪 Doors Open: 8:00 AM
📝 Written Testing Begins: 9:00 AM

📚 STUDY GUIDE AVAILABLE!

Preparing for the written examination? A study guide is available on our department website to help applicants prepare for the testing process. We encourage everyone planning to test to review the guide beforehand.

💰 COMPETITIVE SALARY & RETIREMENT BENEFITS

✅ 3.5% Base Salary Increase in 2028
✅ City-Paid PERF Employee Contributions Beginning in 2027
✅ Longevity Pay Added to Base Salary
✅ Additional Pay for Eligible Specialty Assignments, Education, and Certifications

2028 SALARY EXAMPLES — 1ST CLASS PATROLMAN:

🔹 3 Years of Service: $73,227.05
🔹 20 Years of Service: $85,313.06

These examples reflect the department's projected compensation for the stated years of service. Additional shift differential and specialty pay may apply.

📆 WORK SCHEDULES & SHIFT INCENTIVES

🚓 Patrol Division:

12-hour shift schedule beginning in 2027 as a one-year trial

Every other weekend off

Day Shift Differential: Additional 3%

Night Shift Differential: Additional 4%

🏢 Services Division:

10-hour workdays

Opportunities in Investigations, Traffic, School Resource Officers, and other specialized assignments

⭐ ADDITIONAL BENEFITS & OPPORTUNITIES

✅ Take-Home Vehicle Program (Off-Duty Use)
✅ Sick Day Sell-Back — Up to 10 Unused Sick Days Paid Out in December
✅ Clothing Allowance After Two Years of Department Service
✅ Personal and Sick Days
✅ Health Insurance and Retirement Benefits
✅ Specialized Training and Career Advancement
✅ Opportunities for Overtime and Off-Duty Employment
✅ Education and Specialty Pay Incentives

👮 ALREADY A CERTIFIED POLICE OFFICER?

MCPD welcomes qualified lateral transfers through our EXPEDITED HIRING PROCESS!

Certified officers may qualify for:

🔹 2027 Certified Officer Compensation Up to $85,862.58 at the Highest Longevity Tier
🔹 Recognition of Prior Qualifying Service for Salary, Longevity, and Vacation
🔹 Benefits Beginning DAY ONE
🔹 Take-Home Vehicle Program
🔹 Specialty Assignment and Career Advancement Opportunities
🔹 City-Paid PERF Employee Contributions Beginning in 2027

Your years of law enforcement experience matter, and MCPD recognizes the commitment you've already made to the profession.

📲 APPLY TODAY & ACCESS THE WRITTEN EXAM STUDY GUIDE!

Visit our website:
https://police.michigancityin.gov/become-an-officer/apply/

📞 QUESTIONS?

Contact Asst. Chief Dave Cooney, Chief of Services
Michigan City Police Department
(219) 874-3221 Ext. 1082
[email protected]

SERVE. PROTECT. BELONG.

A stronger community together.

🌊 Lakefront. Community. Opportunity.

🚔 THREE MURDER CONVICTIONS. FOUR VICTIMS. OUR COMMITMENT TO JUSTICE.The Michigan City Police Department is recognizing t...
10/27/2026

🚔 THREE MURDER CONVICTIONS. FOUR VICTIMS. OUR COMMITMENT TO JUSTICE.

The Michigan City Police Department is recognizing the outstanding work of our Investigations Division following three recent murder convictions involving four homicide victims.

These convictions represent years of dedicated investigative work, countless hours of evidence collection, witness interviews, and close collaboration with the LaPorte County Prosecutor's Office.

⚖️ Three Cases. Three Convictions.

🔹 Armann Johnson – Double Homicide

Convicted in August 2026 of the murders of Kiara Hootman (22) and Travis Pennington (35). Johnson was sentenced to 110 years in prison on October 22, 2026.

Lead Investigator: Detective Tempest Miller

🔹 Marcus Ballinger Jr. – Murder

Convicted on October 7, 2026, of the murder of 14-year-old Devin Porter. Sentencing is scheduled for November 5, 2026.

Lead Investigator: Detective Corporal Kay Pliske

🔹 Lamar Friend – Murder

Convicted on October 23, 2026, of the murder of 34-year-old Leland Collins. Sentencing is scheduled for November 19, 2026.

Lead Investigator: Lieutenant Anna Painter

💙 Recognizing the Work Behind the Convictions

"At the center of these cases are four lives that were tragically taken and families who have had to endure unimaginable loss. While no verdict can undo that pain, these convictions provide an important measure of accountability. I could not be prouder of our Investigations Division and everyone who supported these cases."

— Chief of Police Steven Forker

These convictions are the result of teamwork among our detectives, patrol officers, Evidence Response Unit (ERU), assisting law enforcement agencies, and the LaPorte County Prosecutor's Office.

We especially recognize Detective Tempest Miller, Detective Corporal Kay Pliske, and Lieutenant Anna Painter for their leadership, persistence, and professionalism throughout these investigations and court proceedings.

Most importantly, we remember Kiara Hootman, Travis Pennington, Devin Porter, and Leland Collins. Our thoughts remain with their families and loved ones.

Our commitment to victims and their families does not end with an arrest. MCPD remains dedicated to pursuing justice, holding offenders accountable, and serving the Michigan City community.

Michigan City Police Department
Committed to Service. Dedicated to Justice.

🏆 Congratulations to Lieutenant Steven Westphal – Michigan City Exchange Club Officer of the Year!The Michigan City Poli...
10/21/2026

🏆 Congratulations to Lieutenant Steven Westphal – Michigan City Exchange Club Officer of the Year!

The Michigan City Police Department is proud to recognize Lieutenant Steven Westphal as the recipient of the Michigan City Exchange Club Officer of the Year Award!

A 34-year veteran of MCPD, Lt. Westphal has dedicated his career to serving the Michigan City community with professionalism, integrity, and leadership. Throughout his career, he has served in nearly every role and division within the department, gaining invaluable knowledge and experience that he continues to share with fellow officers.

What truly sets Lt. Westphal apart is his commitment to mentoring others and developing the next generation of police officers and leaders. His willingness to teach, encourage teamwork, and empower those around him has made a lasting impact on the department.

In his nomination letter, Officer Pytynia highlighted Lt. Westphal's dedication to his fellow officers and his desire to "leave MCPD better than he found it." Through the officers he has mentored, the leaders he has helped develop, and the positive culture he continues to foster, he is doing exactly that.

Please join us in congratulating Lt. Steven Westphal on this well-deserved recognition!
Thank you, Lt. Westphal, for your 34 years of dedicated service, your leadership, and your continued commitment to making MCPD and our community better.

👏 Congratulations, Lieutenant Westphal!

🖤💙 HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF RETIRED MCPD OFFICER STEVEN P. GUTOWSKI 💙🖤With heavy hearts, the Michigan City Polic...
10/19/2026

🖤💙 HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF RETIRED MCPD OFFICER STEVEN P. GUTOWSKI 💙🖤

With heavy hearts, the Michigan City Police Department shares the passing of retired Officer Steven P. Gutowski, who died on October 15, 2026, at age 70.

Officer Gutowski proudly served the Michigan City Police Department for 25 years, dedicating much of his life to protecting and serving Michigan City residents.

A career in law enforcement is more than a profession. It is a commitment to public service, sacrifice, and the responsibility of making a difference in the lives of others. Throughout his 25 years of service, Officer Gutowski was part of the department's history and the law enforcement family that continues to serve our community today.

While his years of active duty may have ended with retirement, his service and contributions to the Michigan City Police Department will not be forgotten.

On behalf of Chief Steven Forker and the entire Michigan City Police Department, we extend our deepest condolences to Steve's wife, Esther, his children, grandchildren, extended family, friends, and former colleagues during this difficult time.

Thank you for your 25 years of dedicated service, Officer Gutowski. Your duty is complete, and your legacy of service will live on.

Funeral arrangements and obituary:
https://www.otthaverstock.com/obituary/Steven-Gutowski

10/08/2026

When attending please ensure dogs are on leashes & cats are secured in carriers.

***PRESS RELEASE-FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***Contact: Detective Amber MartyTelephone: (219) 874-3221; Ext. 1011Email: amarty...
10/07/2026

***PRESS RELEASE-FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***

Contact: Detective Amber Marty
Telephone: (219) 874-3221; Ext. 1011
Email: [email protected]

LA PORTE COUNTY DRUG TASK FORCE SEIZE FENTANYL, MAKE ARREST DURING INVESTIGATION

Indiana HIDTA Initiative Leads Coordinated Enforcement Effort Resulting in Arrest

Detectives with the La Porte County Drug Task Force, an Indiana HIDTA Initiative, conclude a criminal investigation with an arrest and the seizure of more than 50 grams of fentanyl. This investigation was conducted as part of the Task Force’s continued efforts to identify and disrupt criminal activity involving the distribution of fentanyl.

"This arrest reflects months of disciplined investigative work, and it should send a clear message: if you bring fentanyl into this community, we will find you, we will build the case, and we will hold you accountable,” said Michigan City Chief of Police Steven Forker.” I want to thank the officers and our partner agencies who saw this through. To anyone struggling with addiction — help is available and choosing it is never a sign of weakness. To anyone selling poison to our neighbors, the next knock on the door may be ours."

The La Porte County Drug Task Force continues to work closely with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to investigate crimes involving illegal fi****ms, controlled substances, and violent criminal activity throughout La Porte County. Detectives encourage members of the public to report suspicious activity and information related to illegal weapons or drug trafficking. Additionally, police and public health officials recognize that this investigation may create a need for further resources. Those seeking assistance are encouraged to contact the Michigan City Police Department Social Worker at (219) 874-3221 for support and inquiries.

Johnathan Turner was arrested as a result of this investigation for dealing in a narcotic drug as a level 2 felony and his booking photograph is attached courtesy of the La Porte County Jail. Arrests and criminal charges are mere accusations. Every person is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Detective Amber Marty at 219-874-3221 or email at [email protected].

🔎 MCPD Flock Safety Transparency PortalLearn how MCPD uses Flock Safety technology, including its safeguards, policies, ...
10/07/2026

🔎 MCPD Flock Safety Transparency Portal

Learn how MCPD uses Flock Safety technology, including its safeguards, policies, data retention, and privacy protections.

Flock cameras detect license plates and vehicles—not people, faces, race, or gender.

🔗 https://transparency.flocksafety.com/michigan-city-in-pd

Transparency. Accountability. Public Safety.

***PRESS RELEASE-FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***Date: October 5th, 2026To: All MediaFrom: Captain Kevin Urbanczyk-Public Inf...
10/05/2026

***PRESS RELEASE-FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***

Date: October 5th, 2026
To: All Media
From: Captain Kevin Urbanczyk-Public Information Officer
Re: Fatal crash closes the 4400 block of East Michigan Boulevard for several hours

On October 4th at 8:20 A.M., the LaPorte County E-911 Regional Dispatch Center received a 911 call regarding a motor vehicle crash in the 4400 block of East Michigan Boulevard. Officers from Uniform Patrol Shift 1 and the Traffic Division responded to the scene where they located a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pickup truck and a two-axle enclosed trailer resting along a guardrail on the north side of the roadway. Responding officers observed the driver had serious bodily injuries and was unresponsive. The driver was eventually pronounced deceased at the scene and identified as 30-year-old LaPorte resident Matthew Borders.

A preliminary investigation into this crash revealed Borders was traveling east in the 4400 block of East Michigan Boulevard while towing the enclosed trailer. The pickup truck and trailer crossed left of center and both westbound lanes before making impact with a guardrail and overhead signpost along the north side of the roadway. The pickup truck and trailer sustained extensive damage from the crash and came to a rest along the north side of East Michigan Boulevard. Contents from inside the trailer were scattered across the roadway due to the impact. The 4400 block of East Michigan Boulevard was closed for several hours while investigators processed the scene, collected evidence and cleared the roadway. Toxicology results are currently pending. This is an active investigation, and no further information will be released at this time.

The Michigan City Police Department is requesting anyone who may have witnessed this incident, has any additional information or has cell phone video of this incident to contact lead investigator Officer Thomas Dolph at (219) 874-3221; Ext. 1008 or via email at [email protected]. Other responding agencies who assisted with this investigation include the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office, Trail Creek Police Department, Long Beach Police Department, LaPorte County EMS, Michigan City Fire Department and LaPorte County Coroner’s Office.

We would also like to remind the public that you can contact us via Facebook Messenger or on our webpage at www.police.michigancityin.gov. Tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling (800) 342-STOP, by completing an online submission form at www.michianacrimestoppers.com, or by calling the WeTip Hotline for General Crime (800) 78-CRIME and possibly receive a reward upon an arrest and conviction. All WeTip call information is sent directly to the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office. You can always request to remain anonymous!

***PRESS RELEASE-FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***Date: October 5th, 2026To: All MediaFrom: Captain Kevin Urbanczyk-Public Inf...
10/05/2026

***PRESS RELEASE-FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***

Date: October 5th, 2026
To: All Media
From: Captain Kevin Urbanczyk-Public Information Officer
Re: Arrest made in shooting investigation

On October 3rd at approximately 11:19 P.M., the LaPorte County E-911 Regional Dispatch Center received a 911 call regarding a person that was shot in the Senior Center parking lot located at 2 On the Lake. Shortly after this call is when officers from Uniform Patrol Shift 3 received a Flock Raven gunshot detection notification coming from this area. Officers responded to the scene and located a 43-year-old male suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to the lower back and abdomen. Responding officers provided life saving measures to the victim before he was flown from Lot 1 to a regional hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Officers were then dispatched to Franciscan Health Hospital in Michigan City at approximately 11:38 P.M. for a 32-year-old female who arrived with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to her right leg. 25-year-old Indianapolis, Indiana resident John Holmes was arrested at the hospital for Possession of a Fi***rm by a Serious Violent Felon (Level 4 Felony) and Obstruction of Justice (Level 6 Felony) while officers investigated the female victim’s injury.

Investigators from the Evidence Response Unit, Investigative Division, and Uniform Patrol Shift 3 processed multiple scenes for evidence and interviewed witnesses. Holmes’s arrest photo is attached to this press release courtesy of the LaPorte County Jail. This is an active investigation, and no further information will be released at this time.

The Michigan City Police Department is requesting anyone who may have witnessed this incident, has any additional information or has cell phone video of this incident, to contact lead investigator Lieutenant Anna Painter at (219) 874-3221; Extension 1077 or via email at [email protected]. Other first responders who assisted with this incident include the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office, Long Beach Police Department, Trail Creek Police Department, Michigan City Fire Department, LaPorte County EMS, and Lutheran Air.

We would also like to remind the public that you can contact us via Facebook Messenger or on our webpage at www.police.michigancityin.gov. Tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling (800) 342-STOP, by completing an online submission form at www.michianacrimestoppers.com, or by calling the WeTip Hotline for General Crime (800) 78-CRIME and possibly receive a reward upon an arrest and conviction. All WeTip call information is sent directly to the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office. You can always request to remain anonymous!

Arrests and criminal charges are mere accusations. Every person is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Address

1201 E. Michigan Boulevard
Michigan City, IN
46360

Telephone

+12198743221

Website

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