Angel Rivera sworn in as Lauderhill police chief
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Key Points(5)
- Angel Rivera was sworn in as Lauderhill's new police chief Monday, Nov.
- 2, succeeding Constance Stanley, who retired after 10 years leading the department and 32 years with the agency.
- Rivera's appointment took effect immediately following a ceremony at Lauderhill City Hall.
- He brings 26 years of law enforcement experience and previously served as assistant and interim police chief in North Miami.
- He was selected from three finalists following a nationwide search led by City Manager Kennie Hobbs Jr.
Angel Rivera was sworn in as Lauderhill's new police chief Monday, Nov. 2, succeeding Constance Stanley, who retired after 10 years leading the department and 32 years with the agency.
Rivera's appointment took effect immediately following a ceremony at Lauderhill City Hall. He brings 26 years of law enforcement experience and previously served as assistant and interim police chief in North Miami.
He was selected from three finalists following a nationwide search led by City Manager Kennie Hobbs Jr. and other city leaders.
“What stood out about Chief Rivera was his leadership and clear vision for the future. He was the right choice for the job,” Hobbs said. “Public safety remains a top priority for Lauderhill, and I look forward to working with him to reduce crime and strengthen community trust.”
During his tenure with the North Miami Police Department, Rivera oversaw a period in which the department recorded all-time lows in Part I crimes, the FBI's category for serious violent and property offenses.
As assistant chief, he helped manage the department's US$39 million budget and developed its first five-year strategic plan in 15 years. His experience also includes crime trend analysis, gang unit operations and SWAT command.
Rivera said his priorities include data-driven policing, supporting officers and strengthening relationships between law enforcement and residents.
“I am honored to lead the Lauderhill Police Department and grateful to City Manager Hobbs and city leaders for the opportunity to serve,” he said. “My approach to policing is grounded in data-driven decisions and supporting the officers who protect this community.”
During the swearing-in ceremony, Rivera also pledged to remain accessible and accountable to residents.
“I am going to be present, I am going to be engaged, I'm going to listen, I'm going to always be honest with you,” he said.
Mayor Denise D. Grant welcomed Rivera's appointment, describing it as a new chapter for public safety in the city.
“Our priorities remain clear: responsible leadership and a welcoming community where residents, businesses and visitors can live, work and thrive with confidence,” Grant said.
Rivera graduated first in his class from the Broward College Criminal Justice Institute. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy and the Police Executive Research Forum's Senior Management Institute for Police.
He holds a master's degree in public safety from the University of Virginia and a bachelor's degree in criminal justice administration from Florida International University.
Rivera is a certified assessor for the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation and belongs to the International Association of Chiefs of Police, Florida Police Chiefs Association and Miami-Dade County Association of Chiefs of Police.
