(MANITOU SPRINGS, Colo.) — On Monday, Aug. 5 the City of Manitou Springs honored a former Manitou Springs Police Department (MSPD) officer for his years of service to the community.

According to MSPD Chief Bill Otto, Dr. Michael Vernon Coots joined the department in 1981 and worked as a patrol officer till 1992 when he decided to pursue a new path as a Forensic Psychologist. Dr. Coots continued to work with law enforcement and started working with underprivileged persons.

Courtesy: City of Manitou Springs

Photo of Chief Bill Otto (left), Stephen Dudek, MSPD Administrative Clerk (Right), and Dr. Michael Coots (bottom) Courtesy: City of Manitou Springs

“In recognition of his years of dedication and service to the City of Manitou Springs, I am honored to present him with this Certificate of Appreciation.” wrote MSPD Chief Otto.

“I was blessed to have been a part of MSPD during a transition and growing period for the community, department, and county 1981-1992. I was part of an awesome organization, and the people of Manitou will always have a special place in my heart. I saw a lot of bad things and good things and a lot of very good people. I am blessed to know that I was part of a very positive, needed, and beneficial law enforcement team,” said Dr. Coots.

“On behalf of the City of Manitou Springs, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Michael Vernon Coots for his years of dedicated service and unwavering commitment to our community,” wrote the City of Manitou Springs.