(La Porte County, IN) - A La Porte County Jail officer will be working the streets as a patrol officer.

Michael Matzke, a veteran of the U.S. Marines, began working in the jail for the sheriff’s office in 2023.

“His strong work ethic, attention to detail and leadership abilities quickly became evident, allowing him to make an immediate impact,” said La Porte County Police Capt. Derek Allen.

Five months later, Matzke transitioned to the Courts and Transportation Unit with the Jail Division, which transports offenders to their respective court hearings when their attendance in the courtroom is required.

Currently, Matzke is attending the Northern Indiana Law Enforcement Academy where he’s scheduled to graduate on Friday.  He will start being assigned to patrol duty upon his return.

Matzke, a 1999 La Porte High School graduate, served in the U.S. Marines for eight years.  He later spent one year with the Indiana National Guard.  Sheriff Ron Heeg thanked Matzke for his service to the country and said he looks forward to his “future contributions.”