Mario Knapp, the new Police Chief of Homestead, was sworn in during a ceremony attended by local officials, law enforcement colleagues, and community residents.
According to Florida Politics, the event marked a new chapter in the history of Miami-Dade County’s second-oldest city. The City of Homestead expressed its enthusiasm on Facebook, writing, “The City of Homestead is thrilled to welcome Mario Knapp as its new Chief of Police.”
Following his unsuccessful candidacy for Sheriff last year, the experienced police officer provides a plethora of diversified knowledge gained over 27 years with the Miami-Dade Police Department.
While crammed inside City Hall to witness the swearing-in, elected officials and law enforcement members hailed Knapp’s appointment, which was made after Homestead City Manager Nzeribe Ihekwaba considered more than 50 applicants in a national search.
Knapp’s leadership experience includes commanding units such as the Crime Suppression Unit and the Seaport Operations Bureau. According to Florida Politics, he specializes on use-of-force policies and active shooter protocols.
One of the issues facing Knapp’s strategic governance will be Homestead’s expansion into new industries and infrastructure, such as an Amazon site.
The incoming chief has stated that he intends to prioritize community policing, analytical enforcement, and public trust. “I have to diagnose before I prescribe,” Knapp told Florida Politics, explaining his method to assessing the department’s needs and making required changes.
Knapp appreciates the historic heritage he inherited from his predecessor, Alexander Rolle Jr., who was the first African American to hold the office for more than 27 years.
The Homestead Police Department now has approximately 135 sworn officers, not including support staff, a number that Knapp hopes to increase in line with the city’s growth.
Public sentiments of support for the new chief were reflected in a social media post by the City of Homestead, which expressed its congratulations and excitement for Knapp’s commitment to public safety.