Celebrating America Through Local Eyes

MIPD Officer Marikay O’Brien

Officer O’Brien was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. She served as a Chicago Police Officer for 34 years and retired from the Bureau of Counterterrorism, Airport Law Enforcement, at O’Hare International Airport in June of 2025.

She joined the Marco Island Police Department two days later to continue her life of service. O’Brien had first visited Marco Island several years prior while vacationing at a family time share in Sanibel. A friend of hers, a retired Chicago Detective, had moved to Marco Island and they would visit him while in Southwest Florida.

“The advertisement video for recruiting police officers for MIPD said ‘we protect paradise’ and my first drive over the bridge, last April, while completing the hiring process, I realized I didn’t want to work anywhere else.”

O’Brien is currently assigned to patrol with MIPD and can be seen frequently around the Island engaging with residents. She is also taking classes to become a Florida Certified Crime Practitioner. She was chosen by Beverly’s Angels (a Naples nonprofit, beverlysangels.org) to carry a Hero Kit in her patrol vehicle. A Hero Kit helps officers provide comfort, reassurance, and positive connection to children during difficult situations and daily patrol.

O’Brien attended the Florida Police Chiefs Convention in Orlando as a brand ambassador for the organization and also volunteers there on a weekly basis during her days off with her free time.

“I consider serving the citizens of Marco Island both an honor and a privilege.”

She has two adult children, Jack in Dallas and McKenna in St. Louis. They visit each other as often as they can. 

What does freedom mean to you?

As a police officer, freedom means standing up every day to safeguard those rights for citizens. Serving this community where people can live safely and speak freely. Freedom is a gift and with it comes huge responsibility. I am proud to protect it both at home and in uniform.  

What is one thing that makes you proud to be an American?

Our amazing military and the bravery of those who protect our freedoms we enjoy. We will never forget their service or their sacrifice. We honor our heroes. 

If you would like to nominate a Veteran or local hero to be featured in Celebrating America Through Local Eyes, contact Brittany Richards at brittany@coastalbreezenews.com.