Joseph Hellebrand, a 30-year law enforcement veteran, will serve as chief of the newly created Port Canaveral Police Department. The Canaveral Port Authority Board of Commissioners established the department late last year as culmination of a four-year initiative to enhance public safety at the world’s second busiest cruise port and Central Florida’s outlet to the sea.

“The formation of the Police Department is simply the next step in the evolution of public safety at Port Canaveral in the aftermath of 9/11 and the increased demands of both federal and state laws and regulations,” says Port CEO Stan Payne. “Canaveral has the unique challenge of maintaining a secure environment for both commerce and recreation and the Department’s blend of law enforcement officers, seaport security officers, and Public Safety officials clearly is the best structure to meet these changes.”

Hillebrand, who rose through the ranks from rookie officer to deputy chief with Melbourne, Florida Police Department, will develop the Port’s new department during the next few months.

“We applaud Port Canaveral for their hiring of Chief Hellebrand,” says Brevard Sheriff Jack Parker. “He is strongly suited for strengthening partnerships which will benefit the Port and all of Brevard County.”

“As part of our layered security strategy, we will continue the strong cooperative partnerships we have today with other law enforcement agencies,” says Tom Goodson, Chairman of the Port Authority Commission. “The changes we are implementing prepare the Port to meet the growing security demands in our cruise and cargo business.”