On Friday, Miami's Mayor Eileen Higgins announced Edwin López as the incoming chief of the city's Police Department, the largest municipal police force in Florida, as reported by Telemundo 51.
López, who had been serving as the Police Chief in Doral since January 2023, will succeed the current chief, Manuel "Manny" Morales. Morales is set to retire after a dedicated 32-year career, with the transition effective this October.
"I am thrilled to welcome Edwin López as Miami's new Police Chief," Mayor Higgins stated, praising López as "a leader nurtured in our city, a committed public servant, and a veteran of 28 years who has served our community with professionalism and integrity."
Focusing on Safety and Community Trust
Higgins emphasized that "Miami is one of the safest major cities in the United States, and we intend to keep it that way by supporting our officers, strengthening community trust, and focusing on our top priority: keeping every neighborhood safe."
Leadership and Experience in Law Enforcement
City Manager James Reyes highlighted that López "brings an exceptional track record of leadership, a strong commitment to transparency, and a proven approach to community policing that has earned the trust of the communities he has served."
With over 28 years of experience in law enforcement in South Florida, López previously served 25 years at the Miami-Dade Schools Police Department, where he was chief for the last four years.
From Doral to Miami: A Significant Transition
A Miami native of Cuban-American descent, López holds a bachelor's degree in Physical Education and a master's in Public Administration from Florida International University. Transitioning from Doral, where he led 155 officers in a city of 82,000 residents, to Miami, he will oversee a force of over 1,100 officers in a city nearing half a million inhabitants.
Doral's Mayor, Christi Fraga, expressed regret over López's departure. "During his tenure here, he strengthened our department, supported our officers, and helped build a strong foundation that positions us well for the future. His impact will be felt long after he leaves. We will truly miss him," she remarked.
A New Era Under Mayor Higgins
This appointment marks the first major decision by Reyes as City Manager under Higgins's leadership, who in December 2025 became the first woman and the first Democrat in 30 years to be elected as Miami's mayor.
Manny Morales, a prominent figure in the Cuban-American community, joined Miami's Police Department in 1994 after serving four years in the U.S. Army. His career spanned roles from patrol officer to detective, lieutenant, commander, and major, culminating in his appointment as chief in February 2022.
Earlier this year, Morales expressed his willingness to lead police reform in Cuba should there be a political transition on the Island, having previously spoken out about threats received during his tenure.
López is slated to formally assume his new role later this year as Morales transitions to retirement. Morales described his 32 years of service as "magnificent" and an "absolute honor."
Additionally, Miami plans to expand its police force by approximately 300 officers over the coming years, adding complexity to the challenges López will face from day one.
FAQs on Miami Police Department Leadership Transition
Who is the new Police Chief of Miami?
Edwin López has been appointed as the new Police Chief of Miami, taking over from Manuel "Manny" Morales.
What is Edwin López's background?
Edwin López is a Cuban-American born in Miami with over 28 years of experience in law enforcement, including serving as Chief of Police in Doral and at Miami-Dade Schools Police Department.
When will Edwin López officially start his role?
Edwin López is expected to assume his role later this year, as the transition from the retiring Chief Manny Morales takes place.