MICHAEL RUSE
Port Charlotte
Summary
Experienced law enforcement supervisor and investigator with more than 35 years of service in criminal investigations, child protection, regulatory compliance, and court operations. Extensive background investigating crimes against children, professional licensing violations, and administrative complaints across multiple disciplines. Licensed foster parent with direct experience caring for youth in state custody. Proven ability to work independently in home-based investigative roles while maintaining accountability, professionalism, and sound judgment. Particularly experienced in licensing, compliance, and regulatory review environments involving child welfare and professional oversight.
Overview
37
37
years of professional experience
Work History
Sergeant
Windsor County Sheriff’s Department
10.2018 - Current
- Serve civil process on behalf of state and county courts across three counties
- Work regularly as a court officer, providing courtroom security and screening
- Conduct patrol operations covering approximately 1,300 square miles across multiple jurisdictions
- Provide field leadership, supervision, and sound decision-making in varied environments
- Maintain professional working relationships with courts, attorneys, social service agencies, and the public
Investigator
Vermont Secretary of State – Office of Professional Regulation
01.2013 - 10.2018
- Conducted independent, home-based investigations into complaints and regulatory compliance involving licensed professionals
- Investigated a broad range of professions, including medical, mental health, dental, and allied health providers, as well as other regulated occupations
- Prepared detailed investigative reports supporting administrative enforcement actions and licensing decisions
- Coordinated with other state agencies on complex or cross-agency investigations
- Operated with a high level of personal responsibility, ethical judgment, and accountability in a remote work environment
Detective, Criminal Investigations Unit
Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles – Enforcement & Investigations Division
01.2001 - 01.2013
- Investigated complex cases involving identity theft, fraud, auto theft, tax fraud, and foreign document violations
- Prepared cases for state and federal prosecution and administrative action
- Conducted internal investigations and pre-employment background investigations
- Served as Motor Vehicle Law and VIN Verification Instructor at the Vermont Police Academy
- Delivered training to law enforcement officers, DMV staff, and financial institutions
- Maintained involvement with U.S. Joint Terrorism Task Force initiatives and regional fraud networks
Juvenile Detective
Springfield Police Department
01.1997 - 01.2001
- Investigated child sexual abuse and crimes against children
- Worked closely with investigators from the Department for Children and Families
- Prepared cases for prosecution and coordinated child safety interventions
- Served as instructor for the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program
- Conducted patrol, criminal interdiction, and DUI enforcement
Patrol Officer
Springfield Police Department
01.1989 - 01.1997
- Patrolled assigned areas to ensure public safety and deter criminal activity.
- Responded promptly to emergency calls and community concerns.
- Conducted traffic stops and issued citations for violations.
- Collaborated with local agencies to address community issues effectively.
- Prepared detailed reports on incidents and investigations for records.
Licensed Foster Parent
State of Vermont - DCF
Montpelier
- Provided foster care for youth aged 12 to 15, ensuring safety and support.
- Coordinated with child welfare agencies, caseworkers, and schools to develop care plans.
- Assisted children with daily living activities and personal care needs.
- Gained experience in licensing requirements and placement compliance practices.
- Attended training sessions to enhance caregiving skills and knowledge base.
- Maintained adherence to state regulations regarding foster care services.
- Created a nurturing environment for foster children through proactive engagement.
- Collaborated with service providers to ensure comprehensive care for each child.
Education
55th Full-Time Basic Training Class - Law Enforcement Officers
Vermont Police Academy
Pittsford, Vermont11-1991
Master of Arts - Diplomacy / International Relations
Norwich University
Northfield, VermontBachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice
Norwich University
Northfield, VermontSkills
- Courtroom security
- Investigative reporting
- Child protection services
- Regulatory compliance
- Incident management
- Community engagement
- Conflict resolution
- Training & Development
- Supervision and leadership
- Background Investigations
Teaching Subjects
- Criminal Justice
- Forensics and Crime Investigation
- Criminology
Certifications Professional Training
- Certified Sexual Assault Investigator
- Certified Ground Fighting Instructor
- Certified Auto Theft and Fraud Investigator
- Advanced Document Authentication
- Extensive interview, interrogation, and investigative training
- Ongoing annual law enforcement continuing education
Professional Honors
- Vermont Police Academy – Outstanding Instructor of the Year
- Vermont Agency of Transportation – Team Employee of the Year
- DMV Certificate of Merit / Life Saving Award
Instruction Teaching Experience
- Adjunct Faculty / Lead Instructor, Vermont Police Academy
- Adjunct Faculty, Community College of Vermont
Child Welfare Foster Care Experience
Licensed Foster Parent, Vermont, Provided foster care to a youth from age 12 to 15, Worked directly with child welfare agencies, caseworkers, schools, and service providers, Gained firsthand experience with licensing requirements, placement compliance, and child-centered decision-making
Timeline
Sergeant
Windsor County Sheriff’s Department
10.2018 - Current
Investigator
Vermont Secretary of State – Office of Professional Regulation
01.2013 - 10.2018
Detective, Criminal Investigations Unit
Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles – Enforcement & Investigations Division
01.2001 - 01.2013
Juvenile Detective
Springfield Police Department
01.1997 - 01.2001
Patrol Officer
Springfield Police Department
01.1989 - 01.1997
Licensed Foster Parent
State of Vermont - DCF
55th Full-Time Basic Training Class - Law Enforcement Officers
Vermont Police Academy
Master of Arts - Diplomacy / International Relations
Norwich University
Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice
Norwich University