Manuel Morales
Chief of Police (Retired)
Conexión con Miami
During his four-year tenure as Miami Police Chief, Morales achieved historic lows in violent crime and homicides while strengthening community trust and officer wellness programs. His leadership priorities focused on reducing gun violence and building stronger relationships between law enforcement and Miami's diverse neighborhoods, including Little Haiti and the Upper East Side where he previously served in executive capacities.
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Manuel Morales joined the Miami Police Department in 1994 after nearly four years of U.S. Army service, rising through every civil-service rank over his 32-year career. He held a bachelor's degree in Organizational Leadership from St. Thomas University and a master's degree with distinction in Security Studies from the Naval Postgraduate School's Center for Homeland Defense and Security. As Chief of Police, Morales oversaw significant reductions in violent crime, homicides, aggravated assaults, and property crimes. His career included assignments in Crime Suppression, Domestic Violence, Gang Investigations, Felony Apprehension, and executive leadership roles in multiple Miami neighborhoods and divisions. He was recognized with the 2024 Ellis Island Medal of Honor for his lifetime commitment to public service and community impact.