Kissimmee’s New Police Chief Showcases Reforms After Turbulent Start

N. Stewart Avenue, Kissimmee, Florida, USA - Kissimmee has seen a significant shift in its law enforcement landscape as Police Chief Charles Broadway celebrated his first 100 days in office on July 10, 2025. During a news conference at the Kissimmee Police Department, Broadway detailed the strides made since his appointment amid controversy surrounding his predecessor’s handling of a critical use-of-force case. Stepping in on April 1, Broadway has set his sights on restoring public trust and rebuilding the department’s credibility following the departures of former Chief Betty Holland and Deputy Chief Camille Alicea.

The backdrop to Broadway’s appointment was a troubling scandal resulting from a body camera investigation that revealed misconduct by former officer Andrew Baseggio. This investigation led to Baseggio’s arrest and guilty plea to multiple charges, including felony battery. The fallout was substantial: three officers were fired while five others faced disciplinary actions. In this challenging environment, Broadway has embraced the key themes of transparency, innovation, and community-centered policing.

Restoring Trust and Building Community Relations

Broadway’s agenda for the Kissimmee Police Department showcases a determination to enhance community engagement and promote a culture of accountability. His initiatives include leadership development, expanded wellness programs for officers, and new community outreach efforts. The introduction of advanced technology to bolster investigative capabilities rounds out this multifaceted approach.

Reflecting on the department’s challenges and opportunities, Broadway stated, „We must earn the community’s trust each day.“ In June, he publicly addressed the „unacceptable decisions“ made by his predecessors, underscoring a commitment to rectifying past mistakes and moving forward in a productive manner. The balancing act of instilling confidence while navigating the complexities of police reform is no small feat, but fulfilling this goal is crucial as community expectations evolve.

A Broader Context of Police Reform

The call for reform in policing has echoed throughout the nation over the past decade, fueled by high-profile incidents of police violence that have sparked significant social unrest. The phrase „defund the police“ has led to debates about reimagining public safety and examining the distinct roles of law enforcement and community services. The Kissimmee Police Department is not immune to these pressures, and Broadway’s efforts can be seen as a localized response to a much larger movement toward accountability in law enforcement.

According to findings published by COP Magazine, many police departments are rethinking their strategies to emphasize community engagement and preventative services. This trend encompasses budget reallocations toward mental health services and youth programs, reflecting an understanding that effective policing goes beyond mere enforcement. For example, cities like Los Angeles have invested millions in community initiatives aimed at building trust and safety from the ground up.

Innovative Approaches and the Road Ahead

As Broadway looks to the future, he joins a growing cadre of police chiefs across America who are interpreting their roles through a reformative lens. Enhanced training in de-escalation, mental health awareness, and the inclusion of crisis response professionals in police operations signal a shift toward a more integrated approach to public safety.

This evolving landscape poses questions about how to effectively balance traditional law enforcement with innovative community services. While some citizens remain skeptical of policing reform, the ongoing dialogues emphasize collaboration and a shared commitment to equitable safety solutions.

The Kissimmee Police Department under Chief Broadway represents a pivotal moment for the local community as it navigates the complexities of trust and accountability in law enforcement. As he stated, it’s all about moving forward—because when it comes to building a safer community, “there’s something to be said for it.”