After a busy day, Lieutenant Paul Mellenkamp puts away his badge and uniform and replaces it with a royal blue T-shirt that reads “Mason County High School Class of 2026 Senior Dad.”
“It’s bittersweet,” Paul, 43, said.
Paul’s oldest son, Tyler, 17, will soon be taking the field as he plays the last football game of his high school career. Paul’s wife of 23 years, Sarah; his daughter Breanna, 20; and his son Kaden, 14; join him in the stadium stands.
As Paul watches one of Tyler’s many milestones play out in front of him, it’s moments like these that he’s worked so hard for. Paul, who is currently one of two lieutenants in the Maysville Police Department, spent the first half of his career as a mechanic before deciding to go into law enforcement. It was a big change, but to Paul it was worth it.
“When Paul decided he wanted to go into law enforcement, he said he wanted to do something his kids would be proud of,” Sarah said.
Paul’s role as a lieutenant includes patrolling and administrative duties such as supervising the Maysville Police Department’s K-9 unit, department vehicles and evidence department. From trunk-or-treat to memorial services, Paul also plans all of the events for the police department. As he walks the streets of Maysville, he receives a smile from each person passing by.
Even on the busiest days, Paul said, working hard is worth it because he wants to make a difference in his community and inspire people to give back. Paul said everything he does, he does for his family.
Although every day is different, and some are difficult, Paul’s daughter said he is the strongest person she knows.
“I aspire to work as hard as he does,” Breanna said. “He does so many things at once even though he doesn’t have the time.”
Paul’s wife and daughter recalled the many times he would assist an elderly neighbor with various tasks when she needed it. They said no matter when she called, he always stepped up to help.
“I want people to know me as someone they can count on,” Paul said.
