Meet Boca Raton’s new police chief Jarad Phelps. Phelps brings more than three decades of law enforcement leadership to the city and was selected after a nationwide search of more than 100 applicants from Florida, 27 other states, as well as Mexico and Puerto Rico.
Phelps was sworn in by City Manager Mark Sohaney at Lynn University’s Wold Performing Arts Center on Thursday afternoon, July 30. Featured in the swearing in ceremony was the Boca Raton Fire Department’s Pipe and Drum Band and a flag presentation by the Boca Raton Police Department’s Honor Guard. While at the podium during the ceremony Chief Phelps said, “This city really knows how to make a person feel welcome.”
Sohaney commented that one of the most important tasks of a city manager is the choosing of a police chief and noted that during this selection process Phelps “consistently distinguished himself.”…“With Jared, what impressed me the most was his demeanor. He’s humble. He knows how to lead. He knows how to listen.” Boca Raton mayor Andy Thomson added, “We don’t have the quality of life if we don’t have public safety…this is a man of integrity.”
Phelps comes to Boca Raton from Jacksonville, N.C. where he served as chief of police for two years, overseeing 136 sworn police officers and a support staff of 56. He holds a master’s degree in public administration and has received specific leadership education from the FBI National Academy and the FBI National Executive Institute.
Chief Phelps has pledged to focus on the homelessness issues that plague Boca Raton. He will give special attention to police operations, crime reduction, community engagement and officer recruitment and retention. Chief Phelps will also work on keeping public safety the “cream of the crop”, as city manager Sohaney refers to it.
Chief Phelps stated at his swearing-in ceremony, “I’m going to learn the community, the ins and outs, nuances here. I know there’s a few issues already to take a look at. I’ve been paying attention to the homeless discussion that’s been going on.” Sohaney added, “… We’re starting a quality of life working group that will bring all of the service providers, the non-profits together…” With the addition of four new police officers and a community resource coordinator the homelessness issue remains a top priority.
Chief Phelps noted that positive talks with city staff strongly influenced his decision to accept the position. He looks forward to strong relationships with officers, staff and all stakeholders.
Leave a Reply