The Delray Beach Police Department is undergoing a change in leadership, Assistant Chief Darrell Hunter has been appointed as the new interim chief; he will be at the helm through the department's period of transition, this was confirmed by the DBPD. Hunter, who joined the force in 2007 and became assistant chief in 2021, has a robust track record in the department leading the Community Patrol Division, Community Response Task Force, and the Investigative Division, he steps into his new role following Police Chief Russ Mager's announcement of retirement after nearly three decades of service, according to CBS12.
Expressing his commitment to public service, Hunter stated, "I am honored to step into this role and continue to service the community I’ve worked to protect for so many years," and "I look forward to working alongside our dedicated officers to ensure the safety and well-being of Delray Beach residents," CBS12 reports; Mager on his part extolled his time at the helm offering gratitude and confidence in the department's future, “It has been an absolute honor to serve alongside such a dedicated and courageous group of individuals," he stated, "I’m incredibly proud of what we accomplished together, and I know you will continue to do great things." His tenure at DBPD includes championing modernized policing practices investing in officer training and strengthening ties with the community he is set to retire on June 16.
As reported by WPBF, the city of Delray Beach acknowledged the transition on Friday and recognized Hunter's ascension from his previous post of assistant chief, a position he held since 2021 to his new role as the interim police chief, replacing Mager after the former chief's resignation last Wednesday, the interim chief's law enforcement career at Delray Beach is characterized by a progression through the ranks and an increase in responsibilities.
Hunter's experience spans a variety of roles in the police department he has helped shape policing through various leadership positions and strategic initiatives, his commitment and record in law enforcement having played a central role in his appointment as the interim chief according to WPBF.
