Boca Raton has a new Police Chief.
Jarad Phelps took the oath of office on July 30 at Lynn University. The Foundation then threw a reception where attendees got to meet their new chief.
In his first days on the job Phelps granted the Foundation the access to his thoughts on policing philosophies and the future of the BRPD. Those questions and his responses are below.
FOUNDATION: Why did you enter law enforcement?
CHIEF PHELPS: I have always been drawn to helping people, particularly those who have been victimized. As a second-generation law enforcement officer, I grew up with an understanding of the profession through my mother, who served as a police officer. Her example inspired my commitment to public service.
What’s the most memorable event to happen while you were on duty?
CHIEF PHELPS: Over the course of my career, several events left a lasting impact. I apprehended a kidnapping suspect while on my way to work, played a small role in the D.C. sniper investigation, and assisted Arlington Police Department at the Pentagon following the September 11 terrorist attacks. As Acting Chief in 2020, I led the department through the COVID-19 pandemic, the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder, and significant police reform efforts.
What attracted you to being Boca Police Chief?
CHIEF PHELPS: I have visited the area several times over the years and have friends who serve as chiefs and sheriffs in Florida. When the opportunity presented itself, I saw it as a chance to lead an outstanding police department in one of the most vibrant and well-supported communities in the country. Boca Raton has an excellent reputation and I wanted to be part of its continued success.
FOUNDATION: How do you expect being Chief in Boca Raton to differ from being Chief in Jacksonville?
CHIEF PHELPS: Every community has its own unique needs and challenges. One of the biggest differences is the level of resources available. In Jacksonville, many of our improvements depended on securing grants and finding creative ways to stretch limited funding. The City of Boca Raton is very well funded and supported.
FOUNDATION: What are your top three goals as Chief?
CHIEF PHELPS: First, I want to listen and learn. It’s important to understand the people of this department, how they serve and what they need to be successful. I also want to get to know our residents, businesses and community leaders. Second, I want to take care of the men and women who work at the police department. Our sworn officers and professional staff are our greatest asset. Third, I want to identify opportunities to improve. I believe we should always be looking for ways to make our department better.
FOUNDATION: What’s something you want officers to know about you?
CHIEF PHELPS: I am an open book and willing to have honest conversations about any issue. My mantra is to do the right thing, the right way, in the best manner possible. If there are areas where we can improve, I want to know about them. If there’s a way I can support our employees, I want to know that too.
FOUNDATION: How can AI aid in police work, and what are some other promising trends in police work?
CHIEF PHELPS: Artificial intelligence has the potential to make law enforcement more efficient but it’s important to remember that AI is simply a tool. Real-time information sharing and employee wellness initiatives are other promising trends that can help departments better serve their communities.
FOUNDATION: What is the Boca PD’s biggest need?
CHIEF PHELPS: I’m still in the process of learning about the department and evaluating its needs. I want to listen to our employees, our residents, and our community partners to determine where we should focus our efforts moving forward.
FOUNDATION: How will you measure success?
CHIEF PHELPS: I will use data to measure our effectiveness, and transparency to report on our success. As I continue learning more about how we provide services, what we measure and what is reported, I will use meaningful data to guide decision-making and share our progress.
FOUNDATION: Please provide details about your family.
CHIEF PHELPS: My daughter Kaleigh is a 7th grade English teacher in Prince William County, Virginia. My son Jacob is a senior at Christopher Newport University in Virginia and is majoring in Criminal Justice. I’m incredibly proud of them and the paths they have chosen.
FOUNDATION: Before the interview process, had you ever visited Boca Raton?
CHIEF PHELPS: Yes, I visited Boca Raton a couple times over the years and have always been impressed. This city is a gem!
FOUNDATION: What are your hobbies?
CHIEF PHELPS: I enjoy staying active. Running, cycling, and exercising are all important parts of my routine. I also enjoy traveling and experiencing new places whenever I have the opportunity.
The Phelps Phile
AGE: 53
FAMILY
Phelps has two children – Kaleigh and Jacob.
EXPERIENCE
Before spending two years as Jacksonville, N.C.’s police chief, Phelps spent nearly three decades with the Prince William County Police Department in Va., rising through the ranks to serve as Deputy Chief and Acting Chief of Police.
EDUCATION
Master’s of Public Administration from George Mason University.
Bachelor’s of Science in Political Science and Criminal Justice from James Madison University.
PROFESSIONAL TRAINING
FBI National Academy, the FBI National Executive Institute.
Harvard Kennedy School’s Senior Executives in State and Local Government program.
Senior Management Institute for Policing.
Senior Executive Institute at the University of Virginia.
WHAT THEY’RE SAYING
“Chief Phelps brings exactly the kind of steady, experienced leadership our police department and our community deserve. He has spent his career building trust between officers and the communities they serve, and I know he’ll bring that same commitment to Boca Raton.” – Mayor Andy Thomson
“This was a highly competitive, nationwide search, and Jarad Phelps stood out at every step of it. His depth of experience, sound judgment and commitment to public trust make him the right leader for this department.” –