91-year-old Hendry deputy retires after decades in law enforcement

LABELLE, Fla. (WINK)—At first glance, the Oak Grove RV Resort in LaBelle looked like a crime scene. Police cars lined the street as deputies packed a small community center on Thursday. 

But law enforcement wasn't there to catch a criminal. They showed up to honor a 91-year-old man affectionately known as 'Mr. Munch.'

Donald Munch is retiring from the Hendry County Sheriff's Office after a 50 year career in law enforcement. Munch spent 25 years in the New York State Police, doing undercover work that put him face-to-face with mob.

He thought that was the end of his police career. 

But after moving down to Florida, Munch started doing some volunteer work with the Hendry County Sheriff's Office. That's when former Sheriff Steve Worley offered Munch a job. 

"I couldn't work [with any] better people," Munch said. "They represent what the agency is. Good, honest, straight, hard working people."

On Thursday, the Sheriff's Office threw a surprise party for Munch as he prepares to retire. 

"He's just an amazing individual who, you know, is always willing to help wherever he can," said Cindy West, who works with Munch processing Sheriff's Office applications. "You know, he's just good people."

At 91, Munch isn't afraid to speak his mind. When asked about his favorite part of being in law enforcement, Munch said "arresting assholes," drawing laughter from the crowd.

In New York, Munch said he was part of an operation targeting the mob near Buffalo. Police waited for criminals to bring stolen money orders through the airport, where Munch posed as a priest. 

"I'd get half drunk because some somebody walk up to you and say, Father, can I buy you a drink?," Munch said. "And I'd say, Yes, my son." 

On Thursday, people lined up to take photos with Munch as deputies cut a white-and-green cake. 

Munch mentored younger colleagues, West said, leaving a huge impact on the department. That includes West, who started her career as a dispatcher when Munch was hired. 

"He's just such a class act. And like I told you earlier, all he ever wants to do is do the right thing," said Sheriff Steve Whidden. "And he wants to make the people that he works with proud of him. And he does it whether there's eyes on him or there's not."

Munch isn't giving up police work entirely. The sheriff's office says he plans to come back and volunteer part-time.

And some deputies said they plan to visit Munch at his summer home in New York. 

"I think that Mr. Munch sets a standard for professionalism, honesty and and just true human kindness," said Capt. Susan Harrelle. "And I think he sets a standard that everyone could follow."