Michael David Edmonson (born September 19, 1958) is the former superintendent of the Louisiana State Police, with service from January 2008 until March 24, 2017. Thus far, he is the longest serving of the Louisiana state police superintendents.[1] Edmonson was appointed by Republican Governor Bobby Jindal. Jindal's successor, Democrat John Bel Edwards, accepted Edmonson's letter of resignation after a dispute about troopers mishandling their expense accounts while at a conference in San Diego, California.
Mike Edmonson | |
|---|---|
| 25th Louisiana State Police Superintendent | |
| In office January 2008 – March 24, 2017 | |
| Preceded by | Stanley Griffin |
| Succeeded by | Kevin Wayne Reeves |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Michael David Edmonson September 19, 1958 Alexandria, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse(s) | (1) Helen Owens Achord (divorced) (2) Suzanne Maglone Edmonson |
| Children | Brittney and Michael David Edmonson, Jr. |
| Residence | Baton Rouge, Louisiana |
| Alma mater | Holy Savior Menard Central High School Louisiana State University FBI National Academy |
| Occupation | Law enforcement officer |
Background edit
Edmonson was a native of Alexandria, but attended Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge.
Edmonson was first married to the former Helen Owens, but divorced and married Suzanne Maglone Edmonson.
Law-enforcement career edit
Prior to his appointment as LSP superintendent, Edmonson was highly recognizable due to his association with the LSU football team. He was the head of the security detail for coaches Mike Archer, Curley Hallman, Gerry DiNardo, Nick Saban and Les Miles prior to his appointment by Jindal.
In 2013 Edmonson received the Buford Pusser National Law Enforcement Award.[2]
He also received the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) Martha Irwin Award for Lifetime Achievement in Highway Safety.[citation needed]
Controversies edit
After his retirement, it was revealed that Edmonson and his family had lived rent-free in an official residence for more than nine years, apparently without authorization. The benefit, valued at more than $400,000, may not have been reported to tax authorities.[3] Other perks were also alleged, including chauffeuring of family and misuse of lodging in New Orleans during Mardi Gras.
Retirement in 2017 edit
On March 22, 2017, Edwards appointed as Edmonson's interim (and later affirmed) successor Maj. Kevin Wayne Reeves,[4] (born December 1968).
After he left the state police, Edmonson took a position in private industry.
References edit
- ^ Jim Mustian (March 27, 2017). "Edmonson's abrupt retirement diminishes pension, but big annual sum still coming". The Baton Rouge Advocate. Retrieved March 28, 2017.
- ^ Harper, John (May 18, 2013). "After receiving national award, Louisiana State Police boss defends his record on transparency". NOLA.com. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^ "Scathing audit finds Mike Edmonson took repeated handouts, used State Police role for personal gain".
- ^ "Kevin Reeves, December 1968". Louisiana Secretary of State. Retrieved March 23, 2017.
