William E. O'Brien :::
William E. O'Brien
Graduated in 1962
Inducted in 1999
William E. O'Brien is a 1962 graduate of LTHS and a 1966 graduate of the University of Miami. Known as "Miami's Top Cop," he is the Chief of Police of the City of Miami, Florida. He joined the Miami force in 1975, after serving in the Air Force as a pilot and reaching the rank of Captain. Throughout his 24-year police career, he has been involved in most aspects of policing. He served in and commanded several specialty teams: K-9, air services, mounted and marine patrols. He developed a unit for dealing with domestic violence and sexual assault. His 18-year assignment with the SWAT Team culminated with his advancement to commander of that unit. Also, he coordinated the dignitary protection for Presidents Reagen, Bush, and Clinton, as well as Queen Elizabeth, Nelson Mandela and Pope John Paul II. He has represented the Miami Police Department as a consultant and participated in national and international police training and evaluation. Recognized for his professional and community contribution, he is included in the 1999 Book of Leaders, a compilation by Miami Today of "Who's Who" in Miami's business, art, cultural and civic communities. Active inprofessional organizations, he is a member of the Dade County Association of Chiefs of Police Executive Board, Dade-Miami Criminal Justice Council, Florida Police Chiefs Association and the International Association of Chiefs of Police. Committed to the Miami community, he contributes his time and expertise to numerous causes, including the Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce, Informed Families of Miami, Inc., Law Enforcement Officers Charitable Foundation, Miami-Dade Community College School of Justice & Safety, and the Non-Violence Project. O'Brien says that one of the biggest dangers in police work isn't being shot or stabbed, it's hardening of the soul. He insists that officers maintain a personal commitment to their families and humanity.