The Michigan State Police has a smiling face at the forefront of community outreach, and it’s a familiar one. Trooper Thomas Kinnunen, affectionately known as “Trooper Tom,” has recently been appointed as one of sixteen Community Service Troopers (CST) in Michigan. With a role dedicated to bridging the gap between law enforcement and the public, Trooper Tom is making a lasting impact on the communities he serves. The Munising Beacon first introduced Trooper Tom to readers back in January of 2024.

A proud alumnus of the Munising Mustang Class of 2004, Kinnunen is excited to serve the area he has always called home. “I take pride in where I come from,” he says. His deep-rooted connection to the Upper Peninsula shines through in his approach to community service. “I try to treat people like I would treat a relative, like an aunt or uncle.”

Trooper Tom’s assignment has him engaging with a broad spectrum of the community, from mentoring youth, working with senior citizens and educating residents. CSTs are assigned to regions across the state, serving residents in a wide range of ways as well as working with other law enforcement agencies to strengthen policing. Trooper Tom’s educational outreach covers a variety of topics including driving safety, crime prevention, and even active shooter training. Whether he’s speaking at a local school, retirement home, or business, Kinnunen’s goal remains the same: “I want to leave the world better than I found it.”

Kinnunen’s varied experience, including a background in drug enforcement and cybercrimes, adds depth to his community interactions, making his advice particularly valuable for those considering a career in law enforcement. “The more diverse someone’s education is, the more they can offer in this field,” he advises. For aspiring officers, Kinnunen suggests exploring the career through ride-alongs and internships to gain a clear understanding of the profession.

When he’s not on duty, Trooper Tom spends his free time with his wife and their two young daughters, enjoying the beautiful U.P. outdoors, attending church, and being actively involved in community service beyond his official duties, including serving organizations such as the Marquette County YMCA and the 906 Adventure Team.

Trooper Tom’s approach to his role is not just about service but also about fostering understanding. His philosophy is that law enforcement and the public are all on the same team, working together to build a safer, more connected community.

Based at the Marquette MSP post, which covers Alger and Marquette County, Trooper Tom’s dedication to community outreach and his efforts to humanize the badge and connect with people on a personal level have been met with positive responses. As a Community Service Trooper, he embodies the spirit of public service and community engagement, proving that the role is as much about heart as it is about duty.

Stay tuned for our next article in this series, focusing on scams.