ATLANTIC BEACH, Fla. – City commissioners in Atlantic Beach are one step closer to appointing their new chief of police after meeting Monday evening.
The city received 49 applications for the position and Michael Deal, who was among the four qualified finalists, was recommended for the title. Deal is a 33-year law enforcement veteran, who currently works as deputy police chief in Altamonte Springs.
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A selection committee that includes the city manager, human resources director and city attorney interviewed all the candidates last week. But the city came to the conclusion that Deal is a standout for the job, officials said.
"I'm very excited about this opportunity to come here and start a new chapter in my life, in my law enforcement profession," Deal said. "You have a great community here, wonderful police department. And this is a very exciting opportunity for me."
If approved, Deal would succeed former chief Michael Classey.
Classey was arrested Sept. 30 after the Florida Department of Law Enforcement launched a criminal investigation. Classey faces a series of charges involving the possession of illegal steroids and tampering with evidence.
Classey pleaded not guilty to those charges and his next court appearance is set for Dec. 10.