Satellite Beach names Brad Hodge police chief; department announces multiple promotions

Brad Hodge was sworn in as chief of the Satellite Beach Police Department during the City Council meeting on Nov. 5, 2025. Hodge, who has served the department more than 37 years and as deputy chief since 2022, took the oath of office and received remarks from city leaders who outlined his long career and responsibilities.

Council and police leadership announced several promotions as part of a planned organizational transition. Ronnie Kinsey, previously interim deputy chief, was sworn in as deputy chief after a career that began in 2006 with the Clayton County Police Department and included traffic reconstruction and homicide/traffic investigations. Steve Owens and Eric Anderson were promoted to lieutenant after long service at the department. Sean McCran and Amy Ybarra were promoted to sergeant; Ybarra was noted as the department’s first female sergeant promoted since 1989 and was credited by leadership for investigative work that led to felony charges in a multi‑jurisdiction case.

Chief Hodge and Deputy Chief Kinsey described the promotions as part of preparing the next generation of leaders, stressing accountability, officer wellness and community engagement. The city also introduced Officer Ian Suttner and recognized the retirement of communications employee Larry Beltconian after 30 years of service.

These personnel actions were presented as organizational and ceremonial matters; no policy action or budget appropriation for the promotions was recorded in the meeting minutes. Council members and the mayor offered congratulations and thanked officers for community policing efforts.