Antonio Gilliam Named Tallahassee Police Chief

December 04, 2019

City Manager Reese Goad today announced the appointment of Antonio Gilliam, one of Florida's most experienced and respected law enforcement professionals, to serve as the new Chief of Police for the City of Tallahassee. Gilliam, who has deep Tallahassee roots, was the first choice for the post among three qualified finalists after a lengthy search, interview, and selection process.

"I have strong confidence that Chief Gilliam will demonstrate his commitment and expertise by immediately engaging with the community to address violent crime, specifically gun violence involving our youth," Goad said. "He grew up on the Southside, so he has firsthand knowledge of our community - because it's his hometown."

One of the deciding factors in Chief Gilliam winning the appointment is his strong track records in both his personal and professional life.

"He has demonstrated the ability to connect with people in ways that inspire," Goad said. "Chief Gilliam has all of the skills needed to successfully lead TPD in its ongoing, positive outreach to the community and area partners toward making us a safer city."

The selection process for a new chief began in August 2019 with a nationwide search conducted by the Florida Police Chief's Association (FPCA). Following the acceptance of 52 resume submissions, FPCA recommended 20 candidates to the Community Partners Committee. The committee, comprised of community, faith, business and law enforcement leaders, twice narrowed the list down during its public meetings and unanimously voted to advance three finalists for consideration.

In November, the finalists made presentations to a Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) panel and a City leadership panel, which was followed by a community meet-and-greet. After consideration of the feedback received, the City Manager selected Gilliam, who will report to Deputy City Manager Cynthia S. Barber.

"We are so appreciative for the Tallahassee community's interest and participation in this important selection process," Goad said. "Our residents' thoughtful feedback was the most important part of our solid decision-making process. All three of the finalists are outstanding individuals who have earned our respect and gratitude."

A native of Tallahassee, Gilliam has worked in law enforcement for 18 years with the St. Petersburg Police Department in St. Petersburg, Fla. He currently serves as Assistant Chief of Police, overseeing the Investigative Services Bureau, its 145 sworn and 97 civilian employees and a $20 million budget. After starting as a patrol officer, he was one of the original 12 members of St. Petersburg PD's Street Crimes Unit, which was created by the department's leadership at the request of the community and city leaders to address rampant gun violence occurring at the time. Proving his professionalism and dedication, he worked his way up through the ranks, holding positions in the Field Training Division, Vice and Narcotics and Uniform Services Bureau.

After graduating from Rickards High School, Gilliam earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Florida State University, where he graduated Cum Laude. Additionally, he is a graduate of the Police Executive Research Forum, Senior Management Institute for Police. With a strong commitment to community, he is an active youth mentor and was named the 2018 ABC Action News First Responder of the Year for the Tampa/St. Petersburg area.

"I am deeply humbled and honored by the opportunity to come back to my beloved hometown to serve as Chief of Police in Tallahassee and to work alongside the dedicated men and women of TPD," Gilliam said. "We will diligently join with all segments of the community to enhance public safety and the peaceful quality of life in our Capital City."

As the new Chief of Police for TPD, an agency with a distinguished history of serving the Capital City that dates back nearly 200 years, Gilliam will direct a staff of approximately 535 employees and maintain responsibility for a budget of roughly $60 million. His first official day will be January 6, 2020. The City will host a community event early next year to provide residents an opportunity to welcome the Chief home to Tallahassee.