WARSAW — An open house was held at the Warsaw Police Department on July 21 to celebrate Sergeant David A. Morales’ retirement.

For 28 years, Morales has served the town of Warsaw through different channels as an officer. Morales began working as a second shift patrol officer. In 1999, he became a school resource officer, a position he continued to hold for the last 18 years.

Morales has fond memories of his time as an officer with the WPD. He said the most rewarding parts of his job have been getting to meet and help people in the community.

The officer’s retirement has been prompted by various factors as Morales said he believes the time is right for him to transition to a new position. He looks forward to seeing the next generation of officers step up into leadership roles.

Morales has taken a job with Parkview Health’s Police Department.

Even though he is leaving the department, Morales said he will continue as lead coordinator for Toys for Tots for at least another year. Morales has held the position since the early 1990s.

During the open house, Morales was given a plaque recognizing his nearly three decades of serve. He also received a department issued Sig Sauer P229R DAK. This benefit is made available to all members of the WPD who retire after 20 years.

Morales is married to his wife Ana. They have three children Andrea, Javier and Alex, and a new granddaughter Esther.