A FOND FAREWELL FOR A COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Written by Ki Ki Hobbs

Teary eyes, laughter, and smiles were the prominent expressions on the faces of many attendees as they gathered to celebrate Palm Beach Gardens Police Chief Clint Shannon’s final days at City Hall. Chief Shannon, who has served the City for over 13 years, announced his retirement back in February. A few weeks later, on March 7, dozens of people from Palm Beach Gardens and across Florida packed into a multi-purpose room at Christ Fellowship to honor him for a job well done.

“We are grateful for Chief Shannon’s exemplary service as Police Chief and his unwavering commitment to this community. Our Police Department has faced challenges over the years as the city continues to grow and Chief Shannon has led the department with integrity”, said City Manager Ron Ferris. “We extend our heartfelt best wishes for a well-deserved and fulfilling retirement.”

Chief Shannon’s law enforcement career began nearly 50 years ago, in 1979 where he joined the North Miami Police Department in Miami-Dade County. He eventually served North Miami as Police Chief, spending a total of 31 years with the department.

He came to the City of Palm Beach Gardens in August 2010, where he joined the Police Department as Assistant Chief. Eight years later, he was promoted to Chief of Police.

“I could not be prouder of the dedicated team of officers and support staff that I have had the pleasure to work with. They have shown unwavering commitment and professionalism in keeping our community safe,” said Chief Shannon in his retirement letter to City Manager Ron Ferris.

At Chief Shannon’s retirement celebration, it was clear that his gratitude and pride were reciprocated not only by members of his department but also by City staff, community members, his family, and residents.

Police Chief Dominick Pape receives the Palm Beach Gardens Police flag from Retired Chief Clint Shannon at Pape’s swearing-in ceremony.

Palm Beach Gardens Police Chief Dominick Pape was sworn in on Monday, March 11, 2024.

The auditorium was packed. Seats filled up quickly, and many people stood against the wall eager to celebrate his accomplishments, including law enforcement from nearby municipalities and federal agencies. Speeches lasted well-over an hour and the line to give Chief Shannon a parting hug wrapped around the room.

On Monday, March 11 a few days after gathering to celebrate Chief Shannon’s retirement, Palm Beach Gardens Police, City Staff and community members once again came together, this time to attend the swearing-in ceremony for new Chief of Police Dominick Pape.

Chief Pape began his law enforcement career in 1982 with the Gainesville Police Department. After working his way up to Sergeant, he joined the Florida Department of Law Enforcement then joined G4S, a multinational security company, as Director of Security Operations.

In 2015, he came to our signature city, joining the Palm Beach Gardens Police Department as a Police Major overseeing the Investigations Bureau. Three years later, he was promoted to Assistant Chief of Police for the Investigations/Administrative Division.

“It is an honor and a privilege to serve with the members of the Palm Beach Gardens Police Department. We have a super bowl team in a super bowl level city. I look forward to working alongside the members of the city staff on issues that will make our city stronger.”