Michele Miuccio Was Fired Earlier This Year. Two Candidates Remain For Top Spot.
BOCA RATON, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2026 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — There are two candidates now vying for the top spot in the Boca Raton Police Department following the firing of Chief Michele Miuccio earlier this year. The City of Boca Raton issued this statement on Wednesday:
The City of Boca Raton has selected two finalists for its next Chief of Police following a national recruitment process that drew significant interest from highly qualified law enforcement leaders.
The finalists are:
Nicholas R. Augustine
Assistant Chief of Police, Montgomery County Department of Police, Maryland
Jarad L. Phelps
Chief of Police, City of Jacksonville, North Carolina
Sign up for the BocaNewsNow.com nightly newsletter and breaking news email alerts. Completely free. Unsubscribe at any time.
The City received 105 applications for the position, with 77 candidates meeting the job requirements. While many applicants came from Florida, the recruitment drew interest from across the country, including candidates from 27 states, Puerto Rico, and Mexico.
“This level of interest speaks directly to the strength and reputation of the Boca Raton Police Services Department,” said City Manager Mark Sohaney. “Highly qualified law enforcement leaders from across the country were interested in this opportunity because they recognize the professionalism of this department, the support for public safety in our community, and the importance of the work being done here every day.”
The City conducted first-round interviews with an exceptional group of candidates. Narrowing the field was a difficult decision, with each candidate bringing meaningful executive experience and a clear commitment to public service.
“The candidates selected for interviews were exceptionally strong,” Sohaney said. “Each brought a depth of experience, leadership, and perspective that made this a highly competitive process. As we move forward, our focus remains on identifying the leader best suited to support our Police Services Department and serve the Boca Raton community.”
As part of the recruitment and interview process, the City focused on candidates with demonstrated experience in operational leadership, accountability, organizational culture, public trust, effective communication, and community-focused policing.
The next phase of the process will include additional meetings and time spent in Boca Raton, allowing the finalists to learn more about the Police Services Department, City operations, and the community they may serve.
The City expects to move forward with a final selection following completion of the next phase of the process.
