safety
Outgoing Miami Police Chief Manny Morales says service has been "the honor of my professional lifetime"
By Peter D'Oench at CBS4 Miami
· June 13, 2026
· 3 min read
Outgoing Miami Police Chief Manny Morales spoke exclusively with CBS News Miami on his final weekday on the job, saying he will cherish his service to the city "until my last breath."The 55-year-old Morales, who has been police chief since February 2022, is stepping down as the 43rd police chief of
Key takeaway "The 55-year-old Morales, who has been police chief since February 2022, is stepping down as the 43rd police chief of Miami.
Why this matters in The Miami
As Miami Police Chief Manny Morales departs, his legacy will be closely watched in neighborhoods like Little Havana and Wynwood, where community trust has been a focal point of his tenure. The significant reductions in violent crime, including a 56 percent drop in homicides, will be particularly notable in areas prone to gang activity and domestic violence. Morales' emphasis on officer wellness and morale has also been crucial, given the high-stress nature of policing in a major city like Miami. As incoming Chief Edwin Lopez takes the helm, he will face the challenge of building on Morales' initiatives while addressing the unique safety concerns of a city vulnerable to hurricanes and flooding. The transition will be closely monitored by Miami's diverse communities, who will be looking for continuity and progress in the department's efforts to strengthen community relationships and keep residents safe.
About this story
Original reporting by CBS4 Miami . The Miami surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit CBS4 Miami . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: June 13, 2026 ·
Source: CBS4 Miami ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Outgoing Miami Police Chief Manny Morales spoke exclusively with CBS News Miami on his final weekday on the job, saying he will cherish his service to the city "until my last breath."The 55-year-old Morales, who has been police chief since February 2022, is stepping down as the 43rd police chief of
When was this published? This article was first published on June 13, 2026 by CBS4 Miami and curated for The Miami readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Peter D'Oench at CBS4 Miami. To learn more about how The Miami selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Miami, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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