DELRAY BEACH, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2025 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — Delray Beach Police Chief Russ Mager is leaving the department after nearly three decades of service. The City of Delray Beach issued this advisory to BocaNewsNow.com:
>> After 29 years of dedicated service to the City of Delray Beach, Police Chief Russ Mager has announced his retirement, marking the end of a remarkable career committed to protecting and serving the community.
Chief Mager’s tenure with the Delray Beach Police Department has been defined by leadership, innovation, and a deep commitment to building trust between law enforcement and the residents they serve. Over the course of nearly three decades, Chief Mager rose through the ranks and helped shape the department’s reputation for professionalism and community engagement.
As he reflected on his career, Chief Mager shared: “It has been an absolute honor to serve alongside such a dedicated and courageous group of individuals. I’m incredibly proud of what we accomplished together, and I know you will continue to do great things.”
Throughout his time with the department, Chief Mager championed initiatives to modernize policing practices, invest in officer training, and strengthen ties with the community. His leadership style emphasized collaboration, accountability, and service – values that helped make Delray Beach a model for community-oriented policing.
“Chief Russ Mager has been a dedicated public servant and an integral part of the Delray Beach Police Department for nearly 30 years,” said Delray Beach City Manager Terrence R. Moore. “His leadership, integrity, and commitment to our community have left a lasting impact on our city. We are deeply grateful for his service and wish him all the best in this next chapter,” Moore added.
Chief Mager’s last day with the department will be June 16, 2025.
Assistant Chief Darrell Hunter has been named Interim Police Chief. Hunter, a seasoned law enforcement leader with nearly two decades of dedicated service to the department, will serve in this capacity during the transitional period.
Since joining the Delray Beach Police Department in 2007, Hunter has steadily advanced through the ranks, earning the respect of his colleagues and the community. He was promoted to sergeant in 2014, lieutenant in 2017, captain in 2020, and assistant chief in 2021. His leadership experience spans the Community Patrol Division, Community Response Task Force, and Investigative Division.
“I am honored to step into this role and continue to service the community I’ve worked to protect for so many years,” Hunter said. “I look forward to working alongside our dedicated officers to ensure the safety and well-being of Delray Beach residents.” <<
