RIVIERA BEACH, FL (April 3, 2023) - The City of Riviera Beach is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Michael Coleman as the new Police Chief of the Riviera Beach Police Department, effective immediately. Mr. Coleman has over two decades of experience in law enforcement, and is a highly respected and accomplished leader who has a proven track record of creating safe and secure communities.
"We are excited to have someone of Mr. Coleman's caliber join our team," said City Manager Jonathan Evans. "His leadership skills and extensive experience in law enforcement will be invaluable to our department and the Riviera Beach community."
"Interim Chief Joshua Lewis has served in a challenging role over the past year, and I want to thank him for his dedication to the Riviera Beach Police Department," said City Manager Jonathan Evans. "His leadership has been invaluable in ensuring the safety of our community, and I am grateful for his continued commitment to this important work."
Mr. Coleman previously served with distinction in the Delray Beach Police Department, where he rose through the ranks to become a director. During his tenure there, he created one of the most recognizable community policing units in the country and eliminated crime through arrest and programming. He led sworn and non-sworn employees in serving a total population of over 67,000 by developing comprehensive policies and strategies, including assistance from probation and parole, State Attorney’s Office, local, state and federal agencies.
In his role as a Director of Neighborhood & Community Services, Mr. Coleman delivered dynamic leadership and strategic oversight to establish and expand a high-quality living environment within the downtown area of the city. He employed superior project management capabilities to successfully govern multiple high-priority functions including Administration, Education, Clean & Safe (Entertainment District), Code Enforcement, Neighborhood Services, and Sanitation. He also oversaw the execution of city-related contracts including external trash hauling services.
Throughout his law enforcement career, Mr. Coleman has demonstrated exceptional skills in community outreach and community policing programs. He created an integrated network of strong relationships with community organizations, educational institutions, local businesses, and governmental agencies. Mr. Coleman is also recognized for his outstanding performance, situational problem-solving, and integrity.
As Police Chief of the Riviera Beach Police Department, Mr. Coleman will be responsible for ensuring the safety and security of the residents and visitors of Riviera Beach.
He will use his training, knowledge, experience, and academic law enforcement education to underpin the solutions to complex problems. His extensive leadership training will allow him to defuse intense, stressful situations, and his participatory leadership style will provide team members with the opportunity to become partners in problem-solving processes.
Mr. Coleman's law enforcement career is marked by numerous achievements and awards. He has received Proclamation Awards from the City of Delray Beach, Police Commendation Awards, Letters of Appreciation/Commendation, and Meritorious Unit awards.
"I am honored to have been selected as the new Police Chief of Riviera Beach," said Mr. Coleman. "I am committed to working closely with the community and the department to ensure the safety and security of all residents."
We believe that under his leadership, the Riviera Beach Police Department will continue to be a model for excellence in law enforcement. The department is dedicated to ensuring illegal activities do not occur, and we will continue to work diligently towards a safer community.
Contact:
Brittany Collins
Public Information Officer
Bcollins@rivierabeach.org
C: 561-371-1533