After a time of trouble and turmoil in the Kissimmee Police Department, including the resignation of Chief Betty Holland and other members in wake of criticisms over use of force incidents and subsequent reviews and an interim chief to stabilize the department while finding a new leader, Kissimmee Police Chief Charles Broadway addressed what he has done in his first 100 days in office last week with a video and personal review of steps he has taken to address the problems.
He was blunt about the biggest challenge he faced.
“I would say those who possibly lost trust in us, and to them I would say give us some time and I think that we will prove to you that this agency can be trusted, not just with our words but with our actions,” he said. “Our number one priority is providing the highest level of public safety, to ensure a safe city and safe communities.”
He outlined a range of actions launched in the first 100 days. Among them, a more robust Internal Affairs review process has been put in place to review use of force incidents, with more personnel in the chain of command reviewing those incidents— looking at body cams and looking at the totality of the circumstances. Each review ends on the desk of new Assistant Chief Kevin McGinley, who then discusses and reviews it with the Chief. The updated internal accountability processes are meant to ensure consistent standards are upheld with clarity and fairness.
“Policing is most effective when it is highly visible and collaborative and rooted in trust,” Broadway said.
A new annual report will be produced, starting in January of 2026, designed to be a snapshot and overview of each year. It will contain public education and awareness, crime tips, awards and recognition of staff, crime stats—including use of force incidents and the conclusion or disposition of those use of force incidents. It will also list the number of complaints that come into the department as well as their disposition.
The City Commission has recently approved a Police Oversight Board to reinforce the commitment to transparency and police accountability, although there are still several steps to get it up and running. The Chief hopes to start recruiting board members in the next several weeks. While state law has reduced the power of oversight boards, “I still see the value of a board that is representing of our community, where we can have open discussion and transparency, and we can be near to our community, “the Chief said.
“We can review policy procedures and protocols and ensure that the best policies and protocols are in place to service and effectively protect our community. I still see value in a board.”
Additional officers will be hired to staff a new downtown patrol unit starting in October. This will give regular seven-day coverage downtown with officers who will become familiar faces to its businesses. The department is also implementing data driven patrols and intelligence-led policing of high crime areas to increase visibility and improve response time. A revamped plain clothes unit to help with drug enforcement and locating missing and endangered children.
Several programs have been implemented to directly help department members. A “Readiness to Lead” a leadership training initiative for all personnel serving in supervisory roles has been started. Expanded access to overall wellness programs including mental health resources, peer support networks, and physical wellness opportunities are available. A therapy dog will also soon be added onto the force. There is also a new chaplaincy program which hopes to have volunteers on board within a few weeks.
More general community and engagement and interaction opportunities include a basketball camp to be held at the end of the month to encourage youth mentorship. A Citizens Police Academy will start in September to allow community members an inside look at what police do every day. Increased presence in neighborhoods, civic events, local forums, and faith-based organizations to build stronger community relationships in an effort to help prevent crime before it occurs.
“From the very beginning I made a commitment to lead with purpose, guided by the belief that leadership is not just about words or titles, leadership is not about these stars on my collar,” said Chief Broadway, “It’s about actions and decisions that uplift others, encourage others, inspire others, challenge others, help others become better. Together with the men and women of the Kissimmee police Department, we have embraced a shared mission. We’ve enhanced officer readiness, including expanding crisis intervention and de-escalation training techniques and practices try to ensure officers respond with professionalism and show empathy.
“This is just the beginning. We are building something together—something worthy of the trust our community places in us.”
