Trump emphasized the significance of strengthening border security and addressing the influx of illegal drugs, especially fentanyl, as key objectives for the DEA under Chronister’s leadership.
“I am pleased to nominate Sheriff Chad Chronister for Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). For over 32 years, Sheriff Chad Chronister has served the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and received countless commendations and awards for keeping his community SAFE,” said Trump on Truth Social.
“It is the honor of a lifetime to be nominated by President @realDonaldTrump to serve as the Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration, and I am deeply humbled by this opportunity to serve our nation,” Chronister responded to Trump on X.
Chronister, a seasoned law enforcement professional with over 30 years of experience, has dedicated his career to serving the residents of Hillsborough County. With 32 years at the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), his tenure is distinguished by a focus on reducing crime, promoting community policing, and advocating for diversity and inclusion within the department.
Sheriff Chronister holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice from St. Leo University and is a graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy’s 260th session. Appointed as Hillsborough County’s top law enforcement officer on September 30, 2017, by Governor Rick Scott, he has been re-elected twice, underscoring the community’s confidence in his leadership.
His dedication to improving public safety and strengthening community relationships has earned him numerous awards, including:
- Crisis Center of Tampa Bay Compassion Champion Award
- Department of Defense Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriot Award
- NAACP Walter Moses Burton Unsung Hero Award
- Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber President’s Award
- University of South Florida President’s Fellow Medallion
- Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay Spirit of Achievement Award
- Boys and Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay Great Futures Honoree
Leadership in Community and State Initiatives
Sheriff Chronister has been instrumental in various statewide and regional efforts, including:
- Co-Chairman of the Regional Domestic Security Task Force for Region IV Tampa Bay
- Council Member of the Florida Attorney General’s Statewide Council on Human Trafficking
- Vice-Chairman of the Hillsborough County Public Safety Coordinating Council
- Vice-Chairman of the Hillsborough County Public Schools Citizen Oversight Committee
- Member of the Florida Statewide Drug Policy Advisory Council (appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis)
Under Sheriff Chronister’s leadership, the HCSO has leveraged technological innovations to enhance public service and ensure the safety of its deputies. His emphasis on partnerships, professional development, and community engagement has bolstered relationships with local organizations and increased the department’s overall effectiveness.
