Sheriff Walt McNeil

Walter A. McNeil was elected Sheriff of Leon County in November 2016. In his distinguished 40+ year career as a public servant, Sheriff McNeil has led the fight against crime in Tallahassee, has been tapped to lead two state agencies under former Governor Charlie Christ, and has advised the Obama White House, and other governments around the globe, on law enforcement strategies and tactics.

For 10 years at the helm of the Tallahassee Police Department, then Chief McNeil was recognized for his progressive voice and his effective response to citizen concerns. His community policing efforts to control gangs, drugs and juvenile crime earned him numerous honors, including the Tallahassee NAACP Humanitarian Award, Public Sector Businessperson of the Year and the United States DEA Award.

Far beyond Tallahassee, Sheriff McNeil’s experience has been highly sought after by state, national and international leaders. While at the helm of two departments, he produced a record of reform in state government that achieved measurable results. During his three years as Corrections secretary, for example, he put in place Florida’s first prison reentry programs — reducing the inmate recidivism rate by nearly 5%.

Sheriff McNeil is also known as a good neighbor, giving his time and talents to organizations that make a difference in our lives. He and his family are active members of New Mount Zion AME Church.