Michael Curtis Taylor was born in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, and grew up in the peaceful countryside of Lyndell, Pennsylvania. As a child, Michael lived next door to the famous singer and songwriter Jim Croce, and they knew each other well before Jim moved away. At the age of 12, Michael got his first job helping with traffic control for go-kart races across the street from his home. Earning three dollars an hour, he enjoyed the responsibility and authority that came with the job. Inspired by a police officer who visited his high school, Michael knew he wanted to pursue a career in law enforcement. After marrying his high school sweetheart, he worked as a police dispatcher until he was old enough to join the police force. His first police job was in Parksburg, Pennsylvania, where he quickly fell in love with the work.