Miami’s Police Chief Acevedo, must move beyond the hype, heal fractured relations | Editorial

We expect a new day in policing to have begun in Miami.

On Monday morning, the city swore in its new police chief, Art Acevedo, 56, the nationally recognized former chief of Houston police.

Bringing in Acevedo was a bold, surprising — and secretive — move, shocking because eight finalists who were undergoing a proper public vetting were scrapped in favor of the colorful Acevedo. Most Miamians were unaware that Mayor Francis Suarez had met Acevedo at a conference, and the chief had expressed an interest in coming to Miami. Suarez said it was a no-brainer to land the Cuban-born cop who was a frequent CNN commentator and who marched with Black Lives Matter protesters.

Now, we shall see. Not only do we hope he’ll make a difference at this crucial time of fraught citizen-police relations, we expect it.

Signaled change

At a morning ceremony at police headquarters, Acevedo officially took over the 1,400-member department, which has long been plagued by complaints of mistreatment from minority residents, especially African Americans. The department was under Department of Justice oversight until February, when the supervision was lifted.

A bit of a cheerleader and inspirational speaker, Acevedo, warm and engaging, focused only on the future and signaled that change is coming.

His message to the rank and file was clear: “I love cops,” he told them. But there was more. “Get on the train. Don’t stand in the way. Especially if you’re wearing bars and stars and stripes. The train is going to run you over,” said Acevedo. “Let’s get to work!”

And to the community, Acevedo promised inclusivity.

Born in Cuba

Acevedo, whose family was in attendance for his big day, came to Miami from Cuba as a child in the 1960s, but promised not to be just the city’s “Cuban chief.”

“We are going to serve all people of all colors … and regardless of their economic standing,” he said.

And promotions and hiring, he said it will be based on merit.” The public should expect more community-centric policing, he said.

Suarez had high praise for Acevedo: “We have just brought America’s best chief to our city.”

Acevedo has wide-ranging experience leading law-enforcement departments. He led the California Highway Patrol and police departments in Austin and Houston, not without controversy.

In closing, Acevedo told the crowd: “Buckle up; get ready for the ride.”

Here’s hoping that ride isn’t a rough one. Miami’s been there already and is ready for a new day.

This story was originally published April 6, 2021 at 6:00 AM.