Words Matters In Kansas City

Michael Words has always had Kansas City in his heart, so it was almost predictable he’d one day serve it, especially coming from a KCPD family.

Words graduated from Archbishop O’Hara High School, played running back at MidAmerica Nazarene University, and graduated from Avila University with an accounting degree. In 2020, when the killing of George Floyd rattled the nation, Words knew he could make a difference.

“I thought that was the right moment to step forward,” explained Words.

Words’ grandmother retired from KCPD, and his aunt is currently a staff member. With relatives serving in different capacities at other police departments, law enforcement has always been dear to Words. When he decided to apply to the police department, Words believed he could help rebuild trust between police and community.

While he knew policing would be a challenge, almost two years since graduation, Words says he is more up to speed than he expected. Today, Words patrols out of Central Patrol Division, where he sees “literally everything” and enjoys it.

“There are so many personalities out there,” Words said. “On a call, someone may be really mean for no reason, but on the next call you might meet the nicest person. I like meeting new people.”

Before joining KCPD, Words worked in the corporate world, involved in sales and project management. With his degree in accounting, Words thinks he may want to work on fraud and forgery cases at KCPD in the future, but for now he’s eager to learn and proud to serve his community.

#BlackHistoryMonth

KCPD has open positions for police officers. Apply here.