ORLANDO, Fla. — Eric Smith, a 27-year veteran of the Orlando Police Department and a deputy chief for eight years, was announced as Orlando’s next police chief Monday by Mayor Buddy Dyer.

What You Need To Know

  • Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer names Eric Smith as next police chief 

  • He will take over after Orlando Rolón officially retires later this year

  • Smith has worked for the department for 27 years

  • He has been a deputy chief for eight years and has been part of SWAT Team 

Smith, who will be the city’s 40th police chief, will replace Orlando Rolón, who announced last week that he would retire after three years of leading the department during the COVID-19 pandemic and 29 years with OPD.

Rolón’s last day in the office will be Aug. 19, and his retirement is effective on Nov. 1.

After Rolón’s last day in the office, Smith will serve as acting chief and assume the position of police chief on Nov. 2.

“I am confident that under Chief Smith’s dedicated leadership, the Orlando Police Department will continue to work diligently in protecting our community against crime, while ensuring that every resident is equally protected and respected,” Dyer said. “Chief Smith is well-respected by officers and community members and is the right person to lead the department forward.”

Smith will oversee the department’s day-to-day operations and serve as chief counsel to the mayor in matters of public safety. During his tenure with the department, Smith has worked in or supervised three of the bureaus and 10 of OPD’s 11 divisions.

Most recently Smith was bureau commander for the Patrol Services Bureau, which is made up of more than 500 sworn officers. He also serves as the department’s high-risk incident commander - leading the SWAT, crisis negotiations, emergency response, emergency services and crisis intervention teams.

He had been part of the SWAT team for more than 19 years, including as team commander.

Smith also is a graduate of the 269th Session of the FBI National Academy and has also completed the FBI Florida executive development program and is active in community programs.