New Deputy Chief Began Police Career As 12-Year-Old Police Explorer

TEMPLE TERRACE, FL — A man who started his law enforcement career with the Temple Terrace Police Department when he was only 12 years old was promoted to second in command of the police department during a ceremony Friday morning.

Robert Staley was sworn in as deputy chief of police by Chief of Police Kenneth Albano, fulfilling a dream that began when Staley joined the Temple Terrace Police Explorers as a middle school student.

While other youngsters vacillated about future careers, Staley, a third-generation Temple Terrace resident, was resolute.

He didn't simply want to work in law enforcement. He wanted to be a Temple Terrace police officer.

To that end, he joined the Police Explorers under the direction of Temple Terrace Police Officer Greg Pauley and then went on to attend the police academy at the age of 18. A year later, he realized his dream when he was hired by the Temple Terrace Police Department.

Now, 18 years later, Staley becomes second in command of the police department, which has grown to 53 officers and more than 30 civilian and support staff positions since it was founded in 1928.

"Throughout his 18 years with the department, Deputy Chief Staley has demonstrated exemplary performance and exceptional leadership abilities in every position he has held," said Albano. "I am extremely proud of him and look forward to working with him as he begins this new chapter in his career."

On hand for the ceremony were Temple Terrace Mayor Andy Ross, city council members Cheri Donohue and Gil Schisler, interim City Manager Steve Spina, fellow law enforcement officers, city staff as well as his family and friends.

Front and center was the man who was instrumental in guiding Staley's career path.

Pauley, who retired as a Temple Terrace police captain after a 30-year career and now serves as the city's business relations manager, participated in the ceremony and was among the first to congratulate the new deputy chief.

"I am honored and privileged to work with some of the best law enforcement professionals in the world and look forward to continuing to provide excellent service to the citizens of Temple Terrace," said Staley.

Staley replaces Bernard Seeley, who retired from the position last year.