Former President Donald Trump has selected a Cuban-American to head the United States Marshals Service, a pivotal federal law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing federal judicial mandates. The nominee, Gadyaces "Gady" Serralta, 55, is a Miami-born son of Cuban immigrants.
"Gady is a lifelong public servant with 34 years of law enforcement experience," Trump announced on his Truth Social platform. "He will collaborate with our esteemed Attorney General Pam Bondi to reinstate law and order and ensure America is safe once again. Congratulations, Gady!" he added.
Prior to this nomination, Serralta served as the U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of Florida, which includes the counties of Broward, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Okeechobee, Palm Beach, St. Lucie, Highlands, Glades, and Martin. Initially appointed by Trump in 2018, Serralta was retained by President Biden three years later, following endorsements from both Democratic and Republican officials.
"He has done an incredible job over the past six years," Trump emphasized.
Serralta launched his career in 1990 with the Miami-Dade Police Department, working in divisions such as robbery, narcotics, and gang task force, eventually achieving the rank of major. He later became the commander of the Palmetto Bay Police Unit. Serralta holds a master's degree in leadership from Nova Southeastern University and a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Florida International University.
"My favorite part of the job isn't just fighting crime; it's engaging with the community and knowing I'm providing a genuine service from the heart," Serralta told the Miami Herald in 2015. During that interview, he explained the origins of his unique name, Gadyaces.
"I'm one of nine children, each named with an acronym. Our parents gave us these names when they emigrated from Cuba and started anew here," he explained. Gadyaces stands for "Gloria a Dios y a Cristo el Salvador." "People still can't believe it. It's a fascinating and curious fact," he admitted.
Understanding the U.S. Marshals Service and Leadership
What is the role of the U.S. Marshals Service?
The U.S. Marshals Service is a federal agency tasked with enforcing the directives of the federal judiciary, among other responsibilities such as fugitive operations, prisoner transport, and witness protection.
Who is Gadyaces "Gady" Serralta?
Gadyaces "Gady" Serralta is a Cuban-American law enforcement veteran with over three decades of experience, nominated by Donald Trump to lead the U.S. Marshals Service. He has a notable background in policing in Miami-Dade County.
Why is Gadyaces Serralta's name significant?
Gadyaces is an acronym for "Gloria a Dios y a Cristo el Salvador," reflecting his parents' faith and creativity in naming their nine children after emigrating from Cuba.