RCMP Cpl. Mike Purse started work at the Sylvan Lake detachment during the first week of May.
A 13 year member of the force, he’s previously served in Grande Prairie, Wetaskiwin and Hobbema.
While in the last two locations he was with the general investigation unit dealing with serious crimes for most of the past six years.
Originally from the Kootenay area of British Columbia, Purse received a college diploma in forestry engineering and worked in the forestry industry before pursuing and policing career.
“My father was a Mountie so we moved a lot,” said Purse. He said his father’s career “probably planted the seed for me to apply”.
He lives in Red Deer with his wife who’s a police officer posted there.
In his spare time he enjoys boating, water skiing and golf.
Purse replaces Cpl. Malcolm Callihoo who transferred to Lethbridge.