By Kiara Velez, Interning Correspondent for The Apopka Voice
Deputy Chief Jerome Miller's retirement from the Apopka Police Department surprised many at the City Council's December 4th meeting. However, what was less discussed was another announcement - Apopka Police Chief Michael McKinley confirming his retirement.
"It's with mixed emotions that I stand before you here today, but an opportunity presented itself, and I just had to bite it and take it," said Miller, who left on Friday and will take on the same role (Deputy Chief) at the Orange City Police Department in Volusia County.
McKinley planned to retire sometime in 2025, but there is no clear date due to recent developments.
In an interview with The Apopka Voice on October 17th, both Mckinley and Miller alluded to upcoming changes within the department, with McKinley mentioning that Miller would likely take over as chief in the near future. However, they did not confirm any official timelines at the time.
However, less than two months after that statement, Miller retired from the APD after 28 years of service.
McKinley confirmed that his time at the APD is still ongoing and may extend longer than anticipated due to these recent developments.
"I will not depart until I am confident that the agency will continue moving forward in the direction we have established over the past nine years," Mckinley said.
McKinley said that new leadership would be able to work alongside him for several months before 'taking the helm.'
While Miller's role is yet to be filled, the APD will begin evaluating potential candidates soon. With both leaders stepping aside, the Apopka Police Department is at a crossroads, but McKinley remains optimistic about the department's future.
"The Apopka Police Department is composed of many talented and dedicated professionals.," McKinley said. "I am confident in their ability to navigate this transition while continuing to protect and serve our community with excellence as we move forward.."
