Altamonte Springs confirms Terrence Nicholas as chief of police; swearing-in ceremony held

The Altamonte Springs City Commission unanimously confirmed Terrence “Terry” Nicholas as chief of police and held his swearing-in and pinning at the commission’s March 18, 2025, meeting.

City staff and elected officials said Nicholas rose through the department over two decades and cited continuity and local experience as reasons for support. At the meeting, a city official introduced Nicholas and described the appointment as “a distinct honor” and praised the city’s practice of developing leaders from within the department.

Nicholas took the oath of office in the council chamber and spoke to the assembled family, colleagues and community members, saying, “I promise that I won't let you down.” He thanked his wife, Georgie, and his daughters and referenced mentors in the department including his predecessors.

Outgoing Chief James “J.R.” Riggs and former Chief Dan Smoots were in the audience and were recognized during the ceremony. Commissioners and the mayor congratulated Nicholas; the commission then voted to confirm him. A motion was made and seconded to confirm Terrence Nicholas as chief of police effective March 29, 2025; the vote passed unanimously.

The commission briefly paused for the pinning and signing of the oath, after which speakers offered congratulations and remarks about the police department’s accreditation and institutional continuity.

No public hearing or public comment was recorded on Nicholas’s confirmation. The official motion to confirm and the mayor’s direction that the city clerk administer the oath were recorded in the meeting minutes.