News Release - Berger Named Florida Police Chief of the Year

For an unprecedented third time, Palm Bay Police Chief Bill Berger has been named Police Chief of the Year for the state of Florida. The Director’s Choice Award for Police Chief of the Year was presented at a ceremony in Jacksonville at a meeting of the Florida Police Chiefs Association. Chief Berger graciously accepted the award with his wife Denise and daughter Jessica by his side. The organization honored Berger for, “exemplary management innovations, community service impact and dedication beyond the call of duty.” No one has ever been awarded the title three times. “It truly is an honor,” Chief Berger said. “This organization is made up of experienced professionals dedicated to the service of law enforcement and to be selected like this is certainly an honor for which I am extremely thankful.”

Berger was recognized for creating the first ever police chiefs wall of honor. He spearheaded the statewide alarm ordinance which developed a protocol for law enforcement’s response to the growing number of false alarm calls. He represents the State of Florida in the national organization of the States Association of Chiefs of Police. Berger also developed the executive search process in which he and his colleagues assist mayors and city managers around the state in the selection of qualified police chiefs.

Berger served as president of the International Association of Chief’s of Police from 2001 to 2002 and now serves as the organization’s parliamentarian. “The City of Palm Bay is extremely fortunate to have him serving as its police chief,” said City Manager Lee Feldman. “Chief Berger has brought us to a new level of professionalism in law enforcement that is recognized throughout the state and the country.”

Berger has been Chief of Police for the City of Palm Bay since September 2004.

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Yvonne Martinez

Public Information Coordinator
Phone (321) 952-3456 ext. 4678
Cell (321) 426-5194
130 Malabar Road
Palm Bay, FL 32907

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