Melbourne Police chief out

MELBOURNE, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - The City of Melbourne has stripped its police chief of his duties.  Steve Mimbs, a veteran command officer of the Melbourne Police Department, has been named as acting police chief.

City Manager Jack Schluckebier made the appointment after former chief Don Carey confirmed plans to remain on leave until an official retirement early next year.

"The City appreciates the service that Don Carey has provided since 2003 as Melbourne's chief of police," Schluckebier said. "He indicated that he felt it was in the best interests of the City to be placed on leave and allow for an orderly change in department leadership."

Mimbs, 49, joined the department in 1980 and has earned promotions through the ranks to the command staff. He was promoted to the rank of commander in 2001 and has served as a deputy chief since 2004.

"Chief Mimbs is an experienced leader who enjoys the respect of the officers of the Melbourne Police Department as well as the other employees of the department," Schluckebier said.

Mimbs is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and completed Florida Department of Law Enforcement senior leadership training. He has earned several commendations as a police officer. He holds a bachelor's degree from Barry University. 

Carey is currently on a medical leave that began in March.  Schluckebier said he anticipates that a search for a permanent police chief will be conducted later in 2010. Mimbs will not be a candidate, as he will also be retiring near the end of 2010.