Manuel "Manny" Morales

Manuel “Manny” A. Morales has served as the City of Miami’s 43rd Chief of Police since February 1, 2022. Under his leadership, the Miami Police Department has achieved historic lows in violent crime. His priorities remain reducing gun violence, strengthening community trust, and supporting officer wellness and morale.

Chief Morales joined MPD in 1994 after nearly four years of service in the U.S. Army and has risen through every civil-service rank. His assignments have included Crime Suppression, Domestic Violence, Gang Investigations, and the Felony Apprehension Team, as well as executive leadership roles in the Little Haiti and Upper East Side neighborhoods, Tactical Operations, the Central District, and the Field Operations Division.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership from St. Thomas University and a master’s degree, with distinction, in Security Studies from the Naval Postgraduate School’s Center for Homeland Defense and Security.

Chief Morales is also a proud recipient of the 2024 Ellis Island Medal of Honor, recognizing his lifetime commitment to public service and community impact.