FORT PIERCE, Fla. (CBS12) — Seven top-tier law enforcement professionals are vying to become Fort Pierce’s next Chief of Police.

The City of Fort Pierce announced on Thursday a shortlist of law enforcement professionals who will advance to the next stage in the selection process for the city’s next Chief of Police. The announcement follows a nationwide recruitment effort that drew 57 applicants.

After a rigorous evaluation process, the City said the following candidates have been selected for interviews:

Eric Chan – Police Major, Investigative Services Bureau, Fort Pierce Police Department, FLMichael Dieppa – Chief of Police, Chamblee Police Department, GACaleb Gillette – Bureau Commander: Acting Deputy Chief, Fort Pierce Police Department, FLVernon Hale – Former Assistant Chief of Police, Prince George’s County Police Department, MDMirtha Ramos – Chief of Police, DeKalb County Police Department, GADavid Smith – Commander, Eastern District Operations, Prince William County Police Department, VAMilo Thornton – Deputy Chief, Corrections & Judicial Services Bureau, St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, FL

The selection process comes in the wake of Chief Hobley-Burney’s resignation in May, which followed a turbulent period marked by internal conflict, low morale, and a scathing internal report. In her resignation letter, Hobley-Burney cited a breakdown of trust and division within the department, stating that recent comments from city commissioners had made it “challenging to lead.”

Her departure was accepted by a 3-2 vote from the City Commission, and she was placed on paid administrative leave for 90 days. The resignation followed a union-led survey revealing deep frustrations among officers, including concerns over low pay, lack of support, and high turnover. Public comments during the commission meeting reflected a divided community—some praised Hobley-Burney’s efforts to reduce crime and unify neighborhoods, while others described a culture of fear and intimidation within the department.

See also: Why St. Lucie County residents pay the highest property taxes in Florida

City officials anticipate that first- and second-round interviews will take place over the next two to three weeks, with a final decision expected within five weeks. City Manager Richard Chess emphasized the importance of the selection process.

“The City of Fort Pierce is dedicated to selecting a leader who reflects our community’s values, supports our officers, and continues to build trust through collaboration and innovation. We are pleased with the high caliber of candidates and look forward to the next phase of this important process,” said Chess.

The search has been guided by the city’s commitment to transparency, integrity, and community engagement. The incoming Chief of Police will be tasked with advancing the department’s mission to reduce crime and enhance quality of life through strong partnerships with residents, according to the news release.

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