ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – The City of Escanaba has announced the promotion of Public Safety Sergeant Austin Young to the position of Captain, effective September 2, 2025. Captain Young succeeds Captain Darren Smith, who was recently appointed as the City’s Director of Public Safety.
Young has nine years of experience with Escanaba Public Safety. He has served as a police officer, firefighter, sergeant, K9 handler, field training officer supervisor, fire instructor, LEIN TAC officer, and an active shooter instructor. His leadership has been instrumental in training new officers, supervising multi-agency drills, leading narcotics investigations with the Upper Peninsula Drug Enforcement Team, and ensuring compliance with state and federal standards.
A lifelong member of the Escanaba community, Captain Young is a graduate of Escanaba High School and holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Northern Michigan University, where he also completed the Police Academy.
In his new role, Captain Young will oversee daily operations within Escanaba Public Safety, focusing on officer development, community safety, and building a high-performing, unified, and positive department culture.
The City thanks Captain Young for his dedication, professionalism, and leadership, and looks forward to his continued service to the Escanaba community.
