Ceynar is happy to start law enforcement career with Mar-Mac Police
By Audrey Posten, Times-Register
Over a month into his new position as a Mar-Mac police officer, Dylan Ceynar said he’s “loving every part of the job.”
“I’m really appreciative to the department for the opportunity to start my career here,” he shared.
A Cedar Rapids native, Ceynar comes to the Marquette-McGregor Police Department after serving four years as a security force specialist in the U.S. Air Force.
“It was like the military police,” explained Ceynar. “We were responsible for base security, worked at the gate, checked I.D.s and made sure no one was doing anything bad with the planes.”
Even before joining the military, Ceynar said he was interested in a law enforcement career. He was drawn to the profession by the chance to interact with—and help—the public.
“I like that you can be friendly but are still entrusted with enforcing the law,” he said.
Ceynar was already familiar with the area when he applied for the job, having fished in Harpers Ferry with his grandparents when he was a kid. The beauty of northeast Iowa was a selling point when he proposed the location to his wife. He also appreciates the small-town atmosphere.
“I’ve never driven down the street before where everyone waves at you,” he said. “People really appreciate what you do and who you are.”
So far, Ceynar has spent a lot of time learning the ropes from chief Robert Millin and fellow officer Mason Kwilinski.
“They’re teaching me a lot of what I need to know, but a lot will come from experience, being proactive and asking questions,” he remarked.
Duties have included traffic stops, going to calls and completing online training.
“I even helped a turtle cross the road,” he joked.
Ceynar is also learning McGregor and Marquette streets. That can be difficult at times, he said.
For example, “there are places in Marquette with a McGregor address,” he commented.
Next up for Ceynar is the law enforcement academy. Starting at the end of August, he’ll attend for 16 weeks, working to become a certified officer.