The Vero Beach Police Department has a history that dates back to 1919 when Vero was served by marshals. In 1937, the city's first Police Chief, Bart Wood, took command of a four-man department. The department was housed in an office at the Central Fire Station in downtown Vero Beach. One patrol car was used 24 hours a day. There were no radio equipped police cars at this time. Police calls were taken by firemen over the telephone and if an officer was needed, a search began for him!

 Here are some other interesting facts:

In 1943, the lean war years, a policeman's salary was $135 per month for 12-hour days, seven days a week.

In 1954 the police department had seven men, two radio equipped police cars, and two dispatchers.

The first police station was part of the city hall complex and main fire department which was located where the parking lot for the main post office exists today.

In 1957 the ranks of the department grew to 13 police officers and three patrol cars.

In 1959 the police facility moved to the location of the present city hall. As the department grew during the 1970s, more space was needed and a second story was added along with expanded first-floor offices.

In 1986 the former Police Chief and current city manager, James Gabbard took office. Under his administration, the present police facility was built and officially opened on June 16, 1989.

The Vero Beach Police Department has created many programs and services for the citizens of Vero Beach. Among the more significant accomplishments: the construction of a firearms training facility; reimplementation of a motorcycle unit; the installation of a computer system providing for fully automated record keeping; the establishment of the D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education ) Program; the start-up of a wide-reaching Community Service Program; a Truancy Intervention Program, and a Volunteer Program.

Today there are 62 men and women who serve our city as highly trained police officers. In addition, civilian staff brings the total number of Vero Beach Police Department employee ranks to over one hundred.

The Police Officers of Vero Beach serve a community approximately 13 square miles in size with a population of approximately 18,000.