For Officer Mitchel McKown of the Apopka Police Department in Florida, law enforcement is more than a job. It is a lifelong calling rooted in service, shaped by family, and fueled by a desire to change how communities view the badge.
“I’ve been with Apopka for about a year,” McCown said. “Before that, I was a corrections officer for the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office for two and a half years. My dad was a police officer… he knew this was something I’d be passionate about.”
For McKown, law enforcement offers the chance to make a direct difference.
“You can literally be the tip of the spear going into your community and being able to help the community firsthand,” he said. “There’s not any other career where you can be there to help somebody immediately.”
That desire to serve is what led him to take the oath in 2022.
“I wanted to be the difference. If we can make a difference every single day and be a positive interaction with the community, then people will view law enforcement in a way that, hey, maybe they’re not so bad. They’re just human, too.”
McCowne grew up in Oviedo, Florida. When he and his wife bought their first home, they moved just minutes from his patrol zone. Now, he serves the same region where he lives.
McCowne spent his childhood on baseball diamonds and even played professionally. But long before cleats and stadium lights, he had already been pointed toward law enforcement.
“In high school, I took one of those career tests,” he said. “Law enforcement and public servant were at the top. I always had an interest and desire to be in law enforcement.”
He finally made the leap and has never looked back. “If it’s something you really want to do, give it a shot,” he said.
He believes young officers have a unique role to play: to rebuild trust, shape department culture, and serve with humility.
Law Enforcement Today is proud to partner with GALLS® on the “Next Generation of Protectors” campaign, a nationwide effort to recognize and celebrate the rising stars of law enforcement. Stories like Officer McKown’s are exactly why Law Enforcement Today and GALLS® launched the “Next Generation of Protectors” campaign.
Nominations are open now through October 31, 2025.
We’re searching for the top 30 officers under 30, including rookies and rising leaders who are redefining service, sacrifice, and community policing.
All nominees will automatically be entered for the prestigious Young Officer Award presented by GALLS® at the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in April 2026.
Do you know a young officer who is making an impact? Do they lead with courage, compassion, and integrity? Tell us. Share their story and honor their sacrifice.
Law Enforcement Today is honored to join with GALLS in shining a national spotlight on these men and women. Their stories remind us that the future of law enforcement is strong and that the values of service, integrity, and sacrifice remain alive and well.
The next generation of protectors is already here, and they deserve to be seen.
Submit your nomination today and help us honor the next generation of protectors.
About Galls
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