Carl Kinnison

Carl Kinnison started his career in law enforcement in 1978 as a part-time animal control officer.

Last month he retired after seven years as the police chief.

Kinnison represented Cape Girardeau with extraordinary class during his time as chief. He was, and still is, articulate and highly professional. Kinnison went about his job the right way. He treated others with respect and earned it in return.

During his time as chief, Kinnison helped bring more technology and equipment to the police force, and worked on the Timothy Krajcir case, helping bring the serial killer to justice.

During a recent retirement celebration at city hall, a huge crowd came to wish Kinnison well. He is clearly well-liked and respected within the community.

Kinnison has been teaching part-time at Southeast Missouri State University, his alma mater, for 15 years. He will now become a full-time instructor and serve as director of the Law Enforcement Academy at the university.

Kinnison grew up here, was educated here and will continue to serve his community in the field of academics.

For his previous 34 years of service -- and more importantly, the class he showed during that time -- we say thanks. And we wish him continued success in the second phase of his career.