Ark Valley News - New officer in father’s footsteps

New officer in father’s footsteps
By Chris Strunk
Last Updated: September 03, 2015

Erik Nygaard wanted to be a full-time police officer for as long as he can remember.

Now, the 22-year-old Andover man is wearing a Valley Center badge.

Nygaard recently graduated from the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center and is finishing the local field training program as a full-time Valley Center officer.

"My dad was in law enforcement my entire life," Nygaard said. "So, that's pretty much what I've wanted to do since I was a little kid. I enjoy the excitement and helping people."

Nygaard went to middle school and high school in Andover. His father is a sergeant with the Andover Police Department.

Nygaard was a police explorer in Rose Hill during high school before he graduated and joined the National Guard for two years. He also worked at the Butler County Jail as a jail deputy for two years.

When he saw the position open in Valley Center, he jumped at the chance to apply.

Nygaard said he's enjoying getting to know the community.

"I like it," he said. "It's a lot of fun."

Nygaard and his wife have twin daughters. They now live in Valley Center.

He said he plans to stay in Valley Center as long as he can.

"I would like to work up through the ranks," he said.