Fort Pierce has appointed Deputy Chief Robert Ridle as the interim police chief following the resignation of Chief Diane Hobley-Burney. Ridle, a veteran officer with the Fort Pierce Police Department since 1996, assumed the interim role after city commissioners accepted Hobley-Burney’s resignation in a narrow 3-2 vote on May 19, 2025.
Fort Pierce Police Chief Diane Hobley-Burney Resigns
Chief Diane Hobley-Burney, who joined the Fort Pierce Police Department in 2015, officially submitted her resignation on May 18, 2025. The resignation is effective after a 90-day administrative leave period, during which Hobley-Burney will continue to receive pay.
Throughout her tenure, Hobley-Burney faced several controversies, leading to mixed reactions from the community and city officials. The acceptance of her resignation marks a significant change in leadership for the department.
Interim Police Chief Robert Ridle’s Career in Fort Pierce
Robert Ridle began his law enforcement career with the Fort Pierce Police Department nearly three decades ago, starting as a patrol officer in 1996. Over the years, Ridle steadily advanced through the ranks, demonstrating a commitment to public service and community safety.
Career Progression and Roles Held by Ridle
After serving as a patrol officer, Ridle was promoted to sergeant in 2001. He worked in several specialized divisions, including the criminal investigations division and the Community Policing Bureau. Ridle’s leadership capabilities led to his promotion to lieutenant in 2006.
In his role as lieutenant, Ridle oversaw critical units such as the crime suppression unit, crime analysis unit, police athletic league, and the Crisis Intervention Team. His extensive experience in various capacities provided him with a comprehensive understanding of departmental operations and community engagement.
Administrative Leadership Experience
In 2019, Ridle was promoted to deputy chief, a position in which he managed the administrative services bureau. Additionally, he served as Fort Pierce’s emergency manager, responsible for coordinating citywide responses to emergencies and crises.
Despite his extensive service record, Ridle has maintained a relatively low public profile, generating few headlines over his long tenure. His appointment as interim chief places him at the forefront of the department during this critical transition period.
Community Reaction and Next Steps
The appointment of Ridle as interim chief has been met with cautious optimism from city officials and community members. Given his extensive background and familiarity with Fort Pierce, Ridle is expected to provide stable leadership as the city begins the search for a permanent replacement.
The city commission has not yet announced a detailed timeline or specific criteria for selecting the next permanent police chief. Community members and stakeholders will likely be involved in the selection process as Fort Pierce seeks a leader capable of addressing ongoing public safety concerns and building trust within the community. Recent incidents, such as the seizure of guns and ammunition following presidential threats in Fort Pierce, highlight the importance of strong leadership during this transitional phase.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Pierce Interim Police Chief
Who is the new interim police chief in Fort Pierce?
The new interim police chief in Fort Pierce is Robert Ridle. He previously served as deputy chief and has been with the department since 1996.
Why did Fort Pierce Police Chief Diane Hobley-Burney resign?
Chief Diane Hobley-Burney resigned following several controversies during her tenure. Her resignation was accepted by city commissioners on May 19, 2025.
How long has Robert Ridle served with the Fort Pierce Police Department?
Robert Ridle has served with the Fort Pierce Police Department since 1996. He has held various roles, including sergeant, lieutenant, and deputy chief.
What roles has Robert Ridle held within the Fort Pierce Police Department?
Robert Ridle has served as a patrol officer, sergeant, lieutenant, and deputy chief. He has managed units such as crime suppression, crime analysis, and community policing.
When will Fort Pierce select a permanent police chief?
The city has not yet announced a timeline for selecting a permanent police chief. The selection process will likely involve community input and careful consideration by city officials.
Notably, Fort Pierce recently made headlines when a local man’s presidential threat case drew significant attention, underscoring the critical role of law enforcement leadership in maintaining public safety.
Additionally, authorities previously seized two firearms in Fort Pierce following threats against President Trump, further emphasizing the importance of vigilant policing in the community.
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