Tom Watts celebrated a memorable 21st birthday — he started his new job as an officer with the Emporia Police Department.
Watts, originally from Hutchinson, has law enforcement in his blood. His father and two of his uncles are or were in law enforcement across Kansas.
“It runs in the family,” Watts said, with a smile.
Watts came to Emporia to be with his fiancé, who came to attend Emporia State University in the nursing program. Watts found out that Emporia Police Department was hiring, applied and was hired.
Watts said he likes the people aspect of his job.
“I get to help people and give somebody someone to talk to and help them solve problems,” he said. “It leaves me feeling good at the end of the day that I’ve done something good to help them.”
Watts said he has been honing his observation skills.
“The biggest thing I’ve learned is to be observant at all times,” he said. “Observation in this line of work is probably No. 1. You have to have that observation kicked on at all times, not only to do your job correctly but to keep yourself safe.”
Watts said his goal is to move up in law enforcement. He wants to be a U.S. Marshal or serve with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.