City of Miami Beach Appoints New Police Chief and Deputy Chief

(Miami Beach, FL) Jun 26, 2019 -

Today, the City Commission unanimously appointed Richard M. Clements as the 20th police chief of the Miami Beach Police Department (MBPD). Chief Clements has been with the department for the entirety of his law enforcement career that began in 1990, last serving in the capacity of Deputy Chief for the past three years.

“I’ve witnessed Clements’ personal commitment to professionalism in the department and his eagerness to continue to advance the agency as Deputy Chief since I came to Miami Beach in 2013,” noted City Manager Jimmy L. Morales. “There is no candidate better suited to lead, and I have full confidence he’ll take the department to new heights and ensure its integrity.”

Clements has received numerous commendations and certificates of appreciation throughout his career. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from the University of Utah, and has received professional certificates from Northwestern University, Boston University and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Academy. He also served as a sniper on the department’s SWAT team for 16 years.

In 1995, Clements suffered a gunshot wound in his thigh from an armed subject. While injured, he returned fire and struck the subject who later received a 30-year prison sentence.

“No candidate has the depth of knowledge about this city and the department that Chief Clements possess,” added Morales. “He’s not only well-respected within the organization, having served in practically every division and unit, but among his peers in the County having participated on most, if not all, of the regional task forces in which the city participates.”

Known for his passion and vocation, Clements’ family is rooted in service, with three generations of MBPD officers including his father and son.

Named as the MBPD’s second in command, Wayne A. Jones will be the city’s Deputy Police Chief. Jones has served with the Department since 1996. During his tenure, he has achieved success in a variety of capacities and positions of rank including: patrol and special operations, community affairs, internal affairs, and criminal investigations. Most recently, he was assigned as Major of the Criminal Investigations Division where he was oversaw all investigations.

Jones is a licensed pilot who holds an Associate of Science Degree in Aviation from Miami-Dade College, and a dual Bachelor of Arts Degree in Public Administration and Political Science from Florida Memorial University. He also earned a graduate degree in Public Administration from Florida International University and is a 2003 graduate of the Miami Fellows Initiative, a two year post graduate leadership program. Jones has also received numerous commendations and certificates of appreciation throughout his career.

The swearing-in ceremony will be taking place on Monday, July 1 at 10 a.m. in the City Commission Chambers located on the third floor of 1700 Convention Center Drive in Miami Beach, FL.