From Staff Reports and the Apopka Police Department
In Summary:
The Apopka Police Department has announced two significant promotions that highlight the strength and experience within its leadership team. Lieutenant Daniel Garcia, a department member since 2006, was appointed deputy chief for his proven leadership and innovations in technology and operations. Lieutenant Christopher “Chris” Hanstein, who has served with APD for 24 years, was promoted to captain, recognizing his tactical expertise, mentorship, and dedication to community safety. Chief Quinn-Henry praised both officers for their professionalism, integrity, and commitment to excellence, noting their promotions as a reflection of the department’s continued growth and service to the people of Apopka.
Related: A Decade of Progress: McKinley retires from the Apopka Police Department.
The Apopka Police Department announced two major promotions this week, recognizing the leadership and service of two veteran officers who have devoted their careers to protecting the Apopka community.
Daniel Garcia named deputy chief of police
Chief Quinn-Henry appointed Lieutenant Daniel Garcia to the rank of Deputy Chief of Police, honoring a career that began with the department in 2006. Garcia has served in numerous roles during his 18 years with APD, including Investigator, Internal Affairs Investigator, Recruiter, Bike Unit officer, Patrol Sergeant, and Patrol Watch Commander.
A graduate of Liberty University with a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, Garcia is also a commissioned officer in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserves, where he has led critical missions in combat zones and disaster relief operations. His military experience, combined with his calm and decisive leadership style, has strengthened his ability to lead under pressure.
Garcia’s innovation has been pivotal in advancing APD’s technology and operations. He helped launch the License Plate Reader program, integrate the Axon AI report-writing system, expand the department’s use of FUSUS technology, and develop the Drone Unit, improving tactical and situational awareness.
Throughout his career, Garcia has received multiple awards, including Rookie of the Year, Officer of the Year, and Internal Affairs Investigator of the Year. Known for his fairness, integrity, and mentorship, he has played a key role in training and guiding the next generation of APD officers.
Chief Quinn-Henry said Garcia’s promotion “reflects not only his professional achievements but also his unwavering dedication to the Apopka community and the men and women of this department.”
Chris Hanstein promoted to captain
Chief Quinn-Henry also announced the promotion of Lieutenant Christopher “Chris” Hanstein to the rank of Captain. Hanstein has served the Apopka Police Department for 24 years, building a reputation for professionalism, tactical expertise, and leadership.
Over the course of his career, Hanstein has held a variety of roles, including Support Services Lieutenant, Recruiting Unit Supervisor, Patrol Sergeant, Patrol Watch Commander, and Criminal Investigator. His work with the FBI Safe Streets Task Force and the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force has been instrumental in fighting violent crime and narcotics trafficking through multi-agency collaboration.
As APD’s High Risk Incident Commander, Hanstein oversees tactical command and critical incident management for both APD and the multi-agency SWAT Team. His experience leading high-pressure operations has helped ensure community safety and operational success.
Chief Quinn-Henry praised Hanstein’s leadership and investigative skills, noting that his “analytical approach to criminal intelligence and field operations has directly contributed to measurable reductions in crime across Apopka.”
Hanstein’s promotion recognizes not only his tactical and investigative background but also his consistent mentorship and commitment to APD’s mission of service.
Both promotions underscore the department’s continued investment in experienced, innovative leadership dedicated to protecting and serving the people of Apopka.
Key Points:
- Lieutenant Daniel Garcia was promoted to Deputy Chief of Police, recognizing his 18 years of service and leadership in advancing APD’s technology and operations.
- Garcia played a key role in launching the License Plate Reader program, expanding FUSUS technology, and developing APD’s Drone Unit to enhance tactical awareness.
- Lieutenant Christopher “Chris” Hanstein was promoted to Captain after 24 years with APD, highlighting his tactical command experience and leadership of high-risk and SWAT operations.
- Hanstein’s extensive work with the FBI Safe Streets Task Force and HIDTA Task Force contributed to reducing violent crime and improving interagency collaboration.
