Doral top cop Edwin Lopez named Miami's next chief of police

Doral Police Chief Edwin Lopez is set to become Miami’s next top cop.

Lopez was named the city’s next chief of police, Miami Mayor Eileen Higgins and City Manager James Reyes announced Friday.

“Miami is one of the safest big cities in America, and we are going to keep it that way by supporting our officers, strengthening community trust, and staying focused on what matters most: keeping every neighborhood safe,” Higgins said in a statement.

Lopez has been Doral’s police chief since 2023 and has 28 years of law enforcement experience.

He spent 25 years with Miami-Dade Schools Police and was the department’s chief in his last four years there.

“Chief Edwin Lopez brings an exceptional record of leadership, a deep commitment to transparency, and a proven approach to community policing that has earned the trust of the communities where he has served,” Reyes said in a statement. “We are confident that he is the right leader to carry forward the Miami Police Department’s proud legacy while addressing the evolving needs of our growing and diverse city.”

Lopez will assume the role later this year when current Chief Manuel Morales retires.

“Chief Lopez has been an exceptional leader for our city—someone who has led with integrity, strengthened trust within our community, and elevated the Doral Police Department in meaningful ways. We are incredibly proud of him and this next step in his career, even as we know we will truly miss him here in Doral,” Doral Mayor Christi Fraga said in a statement. “During his time in the city, he strengthened our department, supported our officers, and helped build a strong foundation that positions us well for the future. His impact will be felt long after his departure.”