City of Fort Pierce Announces Shortlist of Candidates for Police Chief Position

The City of Fort Pierce has advanced seven highly qualified candidates in its search for the next Chief of Police. The recruitment process began with 57 applications from across the nation, representing a diverse pool of experienced law enforcement leaders. After an extensive evaluation process, seven candidates have been shortlisted for interviews.

The shortlisted candidates are:

1. Eric Chan - Police Major, Investigative Services Bureau, City of Fort Pierce Police Department, FL
2. Michael Dieppa - Chief of Police, City of Chamblee Police Department, GA
3. Caleb Gillette - Bureau Commander: Acting Deputy Chief, City of Fort Pierce Police Department, FL
4. Vernon Hale - Former Assistant Chief of Police, Prince George's County Police Department, Upper Marlboro, MD
5. Mirtha Ramos - Chief of Police, DeKalb County Police Department, GA
6. David Smith - Commander, Eastern District Operation, Prince William County Police Department, VA
7. Milo Thornton - Deputy Chief, Corrections & Judicial Services Bureau, St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office, Fort Pierce, FL

The City anticipates that first-round and second-round interviews will be conducted over the next two to three weeks. Following the interview process, the final selection of the next Police Chief is expected within three to five weeks.

The search for a new Police Chief has been guided by the City's commitment to transparency, integrity, and community engagement. The next Chief of Police will continue to advance the Fort Pierce Police Department's mission: to reduce crime and enrich the quality of life through a collaborative partnership with all citizens.

"The City of Fort Pierce is dedicated to selecting a leader who reflects our community's values, supports our officers, and continues to build trust through collaboration and innovation," said City Manager Richard Chess."We are pleased with the high caliber of candidates and look forward to the next phase of this important process."

The City of Fort Pierce remains grateful for the ongoing dedication of its police officers and staff, whose professionalism and commitment to service continue to make Fort Pierce a safe, vibrant, and thriving community.

The City will provide additional updates as the process moves forward.