Palm Bay Police Department Earn State’s Top Recognition for Excellence in Public Safety

Palm Bay Police Achieve Excelsior Status, Reflecting Community Trust and Accountability

BREVARD COUNTY • PALM BAY, FLORIDA – The Palm Bay Police Department has once again distinguished itself among Florida’s top law enforcement agencies after earning Excelsior status from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation (CFA)—the highest level of recognition available to police departments in the state.

The honor follows a rigorous reaccreditation review in which the department achieved full compliance across hundreds of professional standards, earning reaccreditation with no corrective actions or deficiencies. This marks the second time Palm Bay Police has reached Excelsior status, signifying five consecutive successful three-year accreditation cycles since the department was first accredited in 2007.

“This reaccreditation and Excelsior status isn’t just for us—it’s for our community,” said Palm Bay Police Chief Mario Augello.

“It’s a promise that their police department meets the absolute highest standards in public safety and service.”

City Manager Matthew Morton praised the department’s consistent excellence, noting that Excelsior status represents more than symbolic recognition.

“This is far more than a rubber stamp,” Morton said.

“The accreditation process is an intensive, independent validation of the department’s professionalism, integrity, and commitment to accountability. Earning Excelsior Status—twice—is proof that our Police Department operates with transparency and continues to uphold the highest ethical and operational standards.”

Accreditation through the CFA evaluates every aspect of an agency’s operations—including policies, training, internal affairs, evidence handling, and community engagement—to ensure compliance with best practices recognized statewide and nationally.

The Palm Bay Police Department, one of Brevard County’s largest law enforcement agencies, serves a population of more than 125,000 residents across nearly 100 square miles, making it one of the most expansive jurisdictions in Central Florida.

The department employs over 170 sworn officers and numerous civilian professionals, organized into divisions such as Patrol Operations, Criminal Investigations, Community Engagement, and Support Services.

In addition to its core public safety mission, the department operates several community-oriented programs, including the Police Athletic League (PAL), the Citizens Police Academy, and neighborhood watch initiatives designed to strengthen relationships between officers and residents.

Special recognition was extended to Accreditation Manager Alyssa Snedeker, whose meticulous coordination and leadership were instrumental in preparing the department for its review.

City officials and department leaders say the reaccreditation reflects not only operational excellence but also the dedication and professionalism of every member of the agency.

“The Palm Bay Police Department’s success is the result of teamwork,” Chief Augello said. “From our command staff to our newest recruits, every member played a part in ensuring we meet—and exceed—the standards our community deserves.”

The Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation will formally recognize the Palm Bay Police Department’s achievement during its next statewide conference later this year.

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