Coconut Creek Welcomes New Police Chief After Safety Night Celebrations

by News Staff August 9, 2024

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Fred Hofer Sworn In as Coconut Creek Police Chief. {Photos by David Volz}

Coconut Creek has a new permanent police chief.

Fred Hofer, a 26-year veteran of the city police department, was sworn in as the new police chief during the commission meeting on August 8.

His family participated, and most of the city’s officers were present. While he was taking the oath, most of the officers raised their right hands and recited it with him.

Hofer then spoke, complimented all the officers, and promised to support them. “Our greatest asset is our people; we have a great department. I will do everything I can to support the officers,” he said.

According to city manager Sheila Rose, Hofer has been a dedicated police officer and leader.

Mayor Sandra Welch said, “Hofer is doing an exceptional job and is a good leader.”

After the presentation, his wife, Lori Hofer, a lieutenant in the Margate police department, said, “Fred is amazing and a great man.”

Hofer began serving Coconut Creek in 1997 as a firefighter/EMT in the public safety department. He also completed the police academy. When the police and fire departments split, he went to law enforcement.

He served on the SWAT team for about 20 years, holding various positions, including sniper, team leader, and executive officer. According to Scotty Leamon, a public safety officer, he has also worked as a field training officer, bicycle officer, and detective on the Special Enforcement Team (SET).

Before the swearing-in ceremony, the Coconut Creek police and fire departments held a safety night in front of city hall. Officer Sean Feisthammel of the patrol division demonstrated his work with Liberty, a dog that searches for missing people and is a comfort dog.

Officers also demonstrated various aspects of police work, including SWAT and the motorcycle unit. Afterward, they had an opportunity to meet with residents and establish positive relations.

The fire department participated and showed residents how they care for the community. People could see a fire truck up close; children enjoyed sitting in the truck and could handle a fire hose. Kevin Sullivan, assistant fire chief, said, “We can meet with people in the community, and children could see our vehicles and spray water from a hose.”

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