05/28/2026
Leadership starts long before the title becomes official 💚
Pensacola Police Department recently welcomed Eric Winstrom as the new Chief of Police during his official swearing-in ceremony surrounded by family, community members, and city leaders.
One detail that stood out?
Chief Winstrom requested the ceremony be delayed until he completed his required state training first — reflecting his commitment to preparation, professionalism, and leading by example from the very beginning.
Moments like this highlight the importance of leadership built on accountability, service, and respect for both the department’s history and the community it protects.
Wishing Chief Winstrom continued success in this new chapter with Pensacola Police Department 👏
Today, along with Mayor D.C. Reeves and surrounded by family, friends, city leaders and members of our community we proudly welcomed Eric Winstrom as Chief of Police for the City of Pensacola during his official swearing in ceremony.
While the ceremony could have taken place earlier, Chief Winstrom asked that it be delayed until he successfully completed his required state training – a reflection of his commitment to professionalism, preparation, and leading by example.
Recognizing his role in this history of our department, Chief Winstrom shared, “As the caretaker for a department that’s been here for hundreds of years, it’s my duty to ensure our work is done in a way which honors PPD’s heroes, past and present.”
Chief Winstrom and his family – to include many extended family members – have joined the thousands of others who have made Pensacola home in recent years. He thanks the community for the warm welcome and shares this commitment, “We want Pensacola to be the safest city for everyone’s family, and we want everyone to be proud of OUR police department. This team is going to work our hardest to make that happen. Something special is happening here, and my family and I are so honored to be a part of it.”
Welcome, Chief!
📷 Tony Giberson/Pensacola News Journal