Chief Miguel Iglesias

Retired NYPD Chief

Chief Miguel Iglesias, a retired Chief of the New York Police Department (NYPD), spent over three decades serving the city with dedication and distinction. Born in Panama City, Panama, he joined the NYPD in 1991, beginning a career that would ultimately see him rise to one of the highest ranks in law enforcement. His contributions to public safety, from commanding various precincts to heading the department’s internal affairs, significantly impacted the NYPD and the communities it served. His reputation as a dedicated public servant and a leader committed to integrity and transparency resonates even after his retirement.

Miguel's dedication to professional development and education set him apart from many peers. When he was promoted to Sergeant in 2001, he recognized the importance of higher education in advancing his career. He pursued his studies, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Management from St. Joseph's College in 2005 and a Master’s in Human Resources Management from Seton Hall University in 2008. These achievements, combined with his strong work ethic and commitment to departmental policies, helped him earn his colleagues' respect and the community's trust. His steady rise through the ranks directly resulted from his ability to balance leadership, responsibility, and empathy in his approach to law enforcement.

Early Career in NYPD

Miguel’s journey with the NYPD began in 1991 when he joined the force after settling in Brooklyn in 1974. During his time at Aviation High School, he witnessed firsthand the challenges of living in a neighborhood plagued by gang violence and a sense of deteriorating safety. These experiences motivated him to pursue a career in law enforcement, driven by a desire to help bring order and security to the community. As he worked his way through the ranks, his dedication to these values was evident in every position he held.

2001 Miguel’s promotion to Sergeant marked a turning point in his career. With this new role, he began taking steps to further his education and prepare himself for more significant responsibilities within the department. His efforts were recognized, and by 2005, he had earned his Bachelor’s Degree, which led to his promotion to Lieutenant. As Lieutenant, he managed a team of officers, overseeing day-to-day operations and ensuring that his Precinct’s needs were met effectively. His leadership style focused on clear communication and a commitment to solving problems within the community.

Climbing the Ranks

Miguel’s career continued to flourish as he earned further promotions. In 2010, he was promoted to Captain, requiring him to oversee police operations across a broader area. He demonstrated a natural ability to lead, guide, and inspire officers under his command, ensuring that his Precinct ran smoothly and efficiently. His focus on community engagement, crime prevention, and officer development earned him recognition within the department and the city.

By 2014, Chief Miguel Iglesias NYPD had been appointed Commanding Officer of PSA2 and the 73rd Precinct, two of the most challenging and high-profile assignments in New York City. His leadership in these roles resulted in significant reductions in crime rates. In the 73rd Precinct, violent crime dropped by 13%, with shooting crimes falling by an impressive 52%. These reductions directly reflected his proactive approach to policing, which combined traditional law enforcement strategies with innovative methods for addressing the root causes of crime.

Miguel’s success in these positions led to further opportunities. In 2016, he was assigned to the Brooklyn Narcotics Division and promoted to Commanding Officer of the Intelligence and Analysis Unit in 2018. In these roles, he oversaw critical operations aimed at combating gang activity, drug-related crimes, and terrorism-related threats. His ability to analyze complex situations and develop effective strategies helped him make significant strides in tackling some of New York City’s most serious issues.

Detective Bureau Executive Officer

In 2019, Miguel was assigned to the Detective’s Bureau as Executive Officer, where he was responsible for overseeing high-level investigations and managing the personnel who worked on them. His leadership in this position helped ensure that complex and time-sensitive cases were handled efficiently. He was mainly instrumental in overseeing investigations involving gang violence and narcotics trafficking. His efforts to collaborate with external agencies on joint task force operations were crucial in dismantling criminal networks across jurisdictions.

In addition to his work on these investigations, Miguel also emphasized the professional development of his staff. He encouraged his officers to pursue further education and advanced training, believing continued growth was key to personal success and the department's overall effectiveness. His role as Executive Officer was marked by a high level of responsibility and ethical conduct, which he carried throughout his career.

Chief of Internal Affairs

Miguel's exceptional career culminated in his appointment as Chief of Internal Affairs in 2022. In this position, he was tasked with ensuring that the NYPD maintained the highest standards of integrity and accountability. His leadership was pivotal in fostering a culture of transparency and ethical conduct within the department. He was responsible for investigating potential misconduct within the police force and implementing measures to ensure officers adhered to department policies and legal guidelines.

As Chief of Internal Affairs, Miguel utilized his extensive knowledge of law enforcement practices and his understanding of legal and departmental procedures to implement effective reforms. His work in this role was critical in rebuilding public trust in the NYPD, particularly after the department faced challenges regarding corruption and misconduct. His focus on ethics, accountability, and transparency helped restore confidence in the department’s ability to police itself and uphold the rule of law.

Throughout his career, Miguel remained committed to his education. He completed various executive programs at Harvard Kennedy School and Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs. These programs allowed him to expand his leadership capabilities and approach complex problems with a broader perspective. His ongoing commitment to learning and professional growth benefited him personally and allowed him to lead the NYPD through complex challenges with knowledge and confidence.

Chief Miguel Iglesias retired from the NYPD in 2025 after a distinguished and highly decorated career. His leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to public safety are models for law enforcement officers in New York City and nationwide. Even in retirement, His influence on the department and his dedication to creating a safer, more transparent police force remain his enduring legacy. Iglesias’s career will be remembered for its remarkable contributions to law enforcement and the community.