Gov. Rick Scott named Col. Chad Chronister, a 25-year veteran of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, to succeed David Gee, who will officially retire Sept. 30.
- Chronister promoted to Colonel last year
- Currently oversees Dept. of Operational Support
- AG Pam Bondi, David Gee expressed support for choice
Scott announced the appointment at a press conference at the Boys and Girls Club of Tampa Bay Freddie Solomon Club at Nuccio Park. Gee, Chronister, and Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi all delivered remarks during the press conference.
Chronister, 49, worked his way up through the ranks as a deputy dealing with street crimes to supervisory roles in narcotics, warrants, intelligence and community outreach.
"I grew up here. I was 23 years old when I came to the Sheriff's Office. I became a man here," he said.
Chronister was promoted to Colonel last year and currently oversees the Department of Operational Support.
Scott said Chronister is known as a "people person" and his love for serving the community both on and off duty made him a natural choice for the job.
"He's proven himself to be a great leader. He will fulfill the mission of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. A true leader is involved in the community, and he is," said Scott.
Chronister said he's ready for the challenge.
"I had never really aspired to be Hillsborough County Sheriff before," Chronister said. "I aspired and loved moving to move higher in command because I got to have a more profound impact, so now to be able to take my passion for service and use it in the capacity of sheriff, I couldn't be more humbled. I couldn't feel more privileged and I'll treat every day and every decision as a privileged person."
A special election will be held in November 2018 when voters will decide who takes over the remaining two years of Gee's term. Chronister said he does plan to run for the office.