FORT PIERCE – The Fort Pierce Police Officers Union Thursday extended an olive branch to City Manager Richard Chess and his pick for the city’s next police chief.
In a written statement, the union said David M. Smith, a Prince William County, VA police commander with 24 years of experience, appears “well suited for the unique needs of Fort Pierce.”
The union also called for Fort Pierce Acting Deputy Chief Caleb Gillette to continue to have an “executive leadership position” in the department once the transition occurs. Gillette, a 24-year veteran of the FPPD who rose through the ranks from patrol officer, had been endorsed by three police union groups and many community members to be hired as chief.
Smith, an Army and National Guard veteran, was chosen by Chess from an initial field of 57 applicants that included three local police officials. However, the final three candidates vetted by Chess and city commissioners included no local contenders.
“While our membership proudly endorsed Caleb Gillette during this process — a testament to the high caliber of finalists considered — we respect the City’s decision and are eager to turn the page to this new chapter,” said the union’s statement provided by Lt. Brian MacNaught. “All the finalists appeared to be well qualified for the position. Conversations we had with David Smith were very pleasant. His vision and leadership traits are well suited for the unique needs of Fort Pierce.”
The next step in the process to hire a successor to former Chief Diane Hobley-Burney comes Monday morning when the Fort Pierce City Commission must vote to affirm Chess’ recommendation to hire Smith. That meeting begins at 9 a.m. in the commission chambers at city hall.
The decision to eliminate local applicants from consideration had sparked controversy. Gillette had been endorsed by three unions representing Fort Pierce officers and many community supporters. However, City Commissioner Arnold Gaines said he had been contacted by unnamed department personnel who claimed an internal hire would perpetuate “cliques” in the Fort Pierce department.
“We were hoping the community support and backing of the Fort Pierce Police Department employees and unions would have held more weight in the process,” Thursday’s union statement said. “…If Mr. Smith is voted in as chief on Monday by the commission, hopefully Caleb Gillette can remain in an executive leadership position to help lead our agency and maintain the positive relationship we have built with the Fort Pierce community.”
The posted starting salary range for a new chief was $128,250-$212,000, with final salary and benefits to be negotiated once the city officially offers the job and Smith accepts.
City residency will be required.
Former Chief Hobley-Burney resigned in May after department employees issued a statement of “lost confidence” in her leadership. She had been chief here for 10 years.
Interim Chief Robert Ridle did not apply. He will retire in 2026 from his position as one of three deputy chiefs.