Assistant Police Chief Daniel Margalo honored as he departs for Deerfield Beach

Assistant Police Chief Daniel Margalo was honored with a proclamation May 6 as the Miami Beach City Commission and colleagues praised his nearly three decades of service and announced his selection to lead the Deerfield Beach Police Department.

The mayor introduced the proclamation and commissioners from across the dais described Margalo’s leadership in operations, patrol and training. Commissioner Fernandez said Margalo had “commanded the respect of our officers” and credited him with delivering “great results for our community.” The commission noted Margalo’s work on body-worn cameras, drone use, emergency preparedness and training for first responders on autism awareness.

Margalo, who the commission credited with long service to Miami Beach and regional preparedness, responded that he was “extremely humbled and grateful for everything that the city of Miami Beach has done for me.” He said Miami Beach will “always be home” even as he prepares for his next role.

Officials noted that Deerfield Beach had announced Margalo’s hiring the night before; commissioners framed the move as a loss for Miami Beach but an opportunity for Margalo and his new city. The proclamation and an additional law-and-order award were presented on behalf of the commission.

The ceremony included remarks about Margalo’s community work, including autism-awareness fundraising and collaboration with the University of Miami Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. Commissioners repeatedly thanked Margalo for his service and wished him success in his new position.

The commission did not take any personnel action at the meeting; Margalo’s departure was presented as an announced hiring by Deerfield Beach and a civic recognition by Miami Beach. The city said it will continue to staff the police department from its current leadership bench as Margalo transitions away.