Son of Police Officer/Arson Investigator Likes Coming to Work Every Day

Detective Michael Luster, Bomb and Arson Section, Kansas City Police Department, MO

I chose Law Enforcement as a career in 1991. I went through the hiring process as an assignment for a college course, but the further I went in the process the more I wanted the job.  My father is a police officer, and I was brought up in a law enforcement environment. I believe in a sense of community and believe I can do my part to serve the community by being a police officer.

My career at the Kansas City Police Department has been great. I have been in the Patrol Division, Homicide Unit, Cold Case Squad, and Bomb and Arson. I like my job and enjoy coming to work every day even after 16 years. Each day I face new challenges, and no two days are alike. The police department has afforded me opportunities that I cannot get elsewhere. I have been to several schools and became a bomb technician and arson investigator.

As a bomb technician and arson investigator my job covers many areas. Equipment needs to be maintained, cases are worked, and we as a unit participate in many public events. These events and demonstrations give me a chance to talk with the community, tell them about my job, and help expel myths about my profession: it’s more than remembering to cut the red wire.

I made a career at the Kansas City Police Department, and I have many friendships that will last a lifetime. I cannot see myself doing anything else.

Learn more about Kansas City Police Department at: https://www.kcpd.org/