TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) -- Tallahassee's newest police chief, Michael DeLeo, has been officially sworn into office.
DeLeo is a 19-year veteran of law enforcement with experience with the Plantation Police Department in Plantation, Florida. He currently serves as Deputy Chief, second in command, and in charge of the department's day-to-day operations overseeing 325 employees and a $36 million budget
In his new role, DeLeo will oversee a department with 423 employees and a $48 million budget.
"All of the people that I've met throughout the community have been very supportive and very welcoming," said Chief Deleo. "The fact is, the Police Department has to have those relationships to be able to succeed, and we can't accomplish anything without the support and interaction with the community."
City Manager Anita Favors Thompson and other City officials attended the swearing-in ceremony at Tallahassee City Hall Monday afternoon.
"We have a history of hiring experienced, outstanding, ethical leaders with a focus on service," said Favors Thompson. "These new leaders continue that tradition, and I am confident they will help us in our ongoing mission to be the best local government in the nation."
DeLeo replaces former chief Dennis Jones who announced his early retirement in September amid on going controversies including the handling of a suspected drunk driver.
