Log In | Become a Member

Orlando Gets a New Police Chief


February 12, 2014 | WMFE Orlando - Orlando is getting a new police chief. Mayor Buddy Dyer announced Wednesday John Mina will replace Chief Paul Rooney, who's retiring.

[Photo: John Mina replaces Chief Paul Rooney, who will join Valencia College.]

Mina is a 23-year veteran of the Orlando Police Department. He says he'll focus on burglaries and engaging the community through programs like Neighborhood Watch, because residents know their neighborhoods best.

"I always wanted to be a police officer, and I don't think anyone comes to this job saying, I'm gonna be the police chief. I just always wanted to put bad guys in jail."

Rooney will join Valencia College, where he'll oversee security. 

Mina also is an Army veteran who served in the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg.

The Orlando City Council will vote on his appointment later this month.

 

All active news articles