INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- Indiana DNR have announced the death of veteran officer of the agency.

Major Michael Portteus was a faithful officer of the department for 35 years until his untimely passing

According to officials he spent 18 years working in the field in both Greene and Ohio County before being promoted to Lieutenant of records and communications and finally Support Services Commander based out of DNR headquarters in Indianapolis.

DNR Law Enforcement Division Director, Lloyd Arnold stated, “Our agency is shocked from the loss of one of our leaders, today. I thank all of our citizens, friends, fellow law enforcement agencies and DNR colleagues for their thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. We continue to pray for the peace of his family, the entire DNR family and for our family of officers."