The Coconut Creek Police Department has had a rocky year dealing with the fallout of two cases involving its police officers, but it looks like the department will be getting some new leadership in the coming months.
Coconut Creek’s former chief of police, Michael Mann, was forced to step down from his role in March amid controversy. The city hopes to replace him with the top man in Punta Gorda's Police Department.
In February, the 101-person agency came under fire after a police dog known to have biting problems lunged from a patrol car and bit a man. In a separate case later that month, an unarmed man died after being tasered by a Coconut Creek police officer. An investigation into that case is ongoing.
Albert "Butch" Arenal, Punta Gorda's chief since 2008, is slated to assume the top position on Oct. 1 if the final deal goes through.
"We are impressed with his leadership abilities, his 30 years of experience in Florida law enforcement, and his commitment to customer service and municipal policing," writes Coconut Creek City Manager Mary Blasi in an email to WLRN.
In 2016, Arenal is poised to become the next president of the Florida Police Chiefs Association.
The city is going through final background, credit, and physical checks before the offer becomes non-conditional. The city expects that process to be completed by next week.
Read more at SunSentinel.com.
