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Palm Bay, FL – The Palm Bay Police Department has announced the promotion of Commander Jeff Spears to the rank of Deputy Chief. Chief Mario Augello made the announcement today, recognizing Spears for his commitment and long-standing service within the department since he first joined in 2010. Raised in Palm Bay, and even starting out with the department as a Police Explorer, under the late, great Frank Tobar, he puts a new meaning into “community policing” being a product of that very community himself.

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“Jeff is humble, he’s a professional, promotes unity, but most importantly…he truly cares about this community,” Chief Augello told us. “That’s the number one thing I look for in someone who wants to serve this community; you have to truly care about it.”

Deputy Chief Spears has had an extensive career in law enforcement, having served in various key positions throughout his tenure. His experience includes serving as a Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, and being a member of specialized units such as the Crime Suppression Unit, Special Operations Unit, and the SWAT Team. His leadership skills were quickly recognized, allowing him to rise through the ranks to sergeant, where he took charge of supervising the Patrol Section, Internal Affairs, and Major Case Unit.

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While serving as a Lieutenant, Spears assumed the role of watch commander and was also assigned to the Community Services Section. During this time, he served as the agency’s Public Information Officer and managed crucial programs, including the Community Resource Unit, Traffic Unit, Youth Services Unit, and the Volunteer Citizens on Patrol (VCOP) Program.

As a Commander, Spears continued to make significant contributions in the Community Services Section while also leading the Support Services Division. His leadership, experience, and dedication to the department and the community have made him a respected figure within Palm Bay’s law enforcement.

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