There is a new face among the detectives at the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department Independence Township substation ? sort of.
Detective Steve Armstrong, with the sheriff’s department since 1993 and with the substation since 2004, moved into a detective position from working midnights as a patrolmen on April 1 replacing Detective Lonnie Mullins who will stay on with the department in another capacity.
‘I wanted to see cases through all the way and my father was a detective for 27 years, out of his 32 in law enforcement,? said Armstrong. ‘It’s always interested me? just being around it. I have some big shoes to fill, (my father) retired in 2000.?
Working as an electrician in the Metro Detroit area, prior to embarking on a career in law enforcement, the influence of Armstrong’s father and uncle helped draw him to the field. His father served in another Metro Detroit community, while his uncle was a deputy in Independence Township from the early 60’s until 1993.
‘I guess (my father’s career) impacted me in a way. I always like hearing how a good case comes together and is ultimately prosecuted out so the victims can have some closure,? said Armstrong.
While there is excitement for the jump to detective and its challenges, Armstrong appreciates his time on midnights with his colleagues.
‘The deputies on midnights deserve a lot of credit. That was my number one drawback of leaving the job, but I’m happy to be here in this capacity,? said Armstrong. ‘I think it gives me an opportunity to serve the community better? We serve the community on midnights in a capacity people just don’t see. Here, I’m in the spotlight.?
Outside the office, Armstrong continues his childhood hobbies of hunting and fishing as well as enjoying time with his family.