Retired NYPD Chief
Chief Miguel Iglesias, a retired Chief of the New York Police Department (NYPD), dedicated over three decades of service to law enforcement, significantly impacting public safety, department culture, and community relations. He immigrated to the United States in Panama City, Panama, in the early 1970s. After settling in Brooklyn, he decided to pursue a career in law enforcement, joining the NYPD in 1991. Throughout his career, his unwavering dedication, strong leadership, and ethical standards propelled him to one of the highest positions within the department.
Starting his career as a patrol officer, Miguel quickly demonstrated his leadership potential. He was promoted to Sergeant in 2001, which motivated him to pursue higher education. Recognizing that further academic credentials would be vital to advancing his career, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Management from St. Joseph’s College in 2005 and a Master’s Degree in Human Resources Management from Seton Hall University in 2008. This educational foundation helped him develop a well-rounded approach to leadership, combining practical law enforcement skills with a deep understanding of organizational dynamics.
2005 Miguel’s promotion to Lieutenant marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career. As a Lieutenant, he managed the daily operations of his Precinct and oversaw the training and development of his officers. His approach was characterized by clear communication, collaboration, and an emphasis on community policing. This combination of strategic oversight and personal engagement with the community earned Miguel the respect of his colleagues and the residents he served. His ability to lead with integrity and foster trust was evident as he rose.
By 2010, Chief Miguel Iglesias NYPD had been promoted to Captain, taking on greater responsibilities, including overseeing multiple precincts. His leadership as Captain was marked by a strong focus on reducing crime and improving public safety. In 2014, he was appointed Commanding Officer of PSA2 and the 73rd Precinct, a position that presented new challenges and allowed him to make a lasting impact. Under his leadership, crime dropped significantly, with a 52% reduction in shooting crimes and a 13% decrease in overall crime. His ability to implement effective crime prevention strategies while maintaining strong community ties was critical in these accomplishments.
Miguel’s success in the 73rd Precinct led to further opportunities, including his appointment to the Brooklyn Narcotics Division in 2016 and then as Commanding Officer of the Intelligence and Analysis Unit in 2018. In these roles, he focused on high-level criminal investigations, including counterterrorism efforts and drug trafficking, working closely with local and federal agencies. His leadership in these areas allowed the NYPD to avoid emerging threats while maintaining a proactive approach to public safety.
In 2019, Miguel was appointed Executive Officer of the Detective’s Bureau, where he oversaw some of the department’s most complex investigations. His work in this role ensured that cases were handled efficiently and ethically. He prioritized professional development for his officers, believing continuous training and growth were key to maintaining the NYPD’s effectiveness.
Miguel’s career culminated in 2022 when he was appointed Chief of Internal Affairs. In this position, he led the department’s efforts to ensure officers adhered to the highest ethical standards. Under his leadership, the Internal Affairs Bureau became more transparent and efficient, helping restore public trust in the NYPD. His work in Internal Affairs also created a culture of accountability, where misconduct was addressed swiftly and fairly.
Chief Miguel Iglesias retired in 2025 after a distinguished and impactful career. His legacy is of service, integrity, and leadership, and his influence continues to resonate throughout the NYPD. Even in retirement, his contributions to law enforcement practices, community safety, and the development of future officers remain a powerful example of what effective leadership can achieve.
