By Joanna Putman
Police1
LAKE NORDEN, S.D. — Following the departure of the previous chief, Lake Norden Police Chief Mike Morgan hopes to inspire trust in the agency however possible, including with his music, he told KELO.
Morgan stepped into the role following a period of controversy surrounding former Chief Jimmy Murphy, whose law enforcement certification was revoked in 2018 for misconduct, including the misuse of a TASER, according to the report.
“I’ve been trying really hard to get out in the community and show the people of Lake Norden, even in the Hamlin County area, that we are not bad—we are actually here to help you,” Morgan said. “I’ve been working really hard with the community; they are actually accepting us now. I’ve seen a change in that.”
In addition to standard police duties, Morgan is known for his powerful singing voice. His talent first gained attention years ago when a video of him singing the National Anthem in the Codington County Courthouse went viral, according to the report.
Now, as chief, he uses music as a way to connect with the community, often singing in the town’s new public safety building, which features acoustics he finds soothing.
Morgan’s tenure also marks the introduction of a K-9 unit, a change he initiated to enhance local law enforcement capabilities, according to the report.
Despite his vocal talent, he has no plans to pursue music professionally.
“I like the simple life. I love my family. If I went on the road, I’d never see my family, so I am a family man,” he said. “I plan on retiring here in Lake Norden as the police chief. I love my life the way it is now.”
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