The following content is part of Police1’s Police Leader Playbook, a resource aimed at helping new law enforcement leaders move beyond basic management and supervision skills and become inspirational leaders with integrity and passion. Through a handful of questions presented by Police1, veteran leaders reflect on their early days in leadership roles and offer advice, while newer leaders detail their experiences taking on a new position. Email editor@police1.com to offer your insights for the Police Leader Playbook.
Chief Jeffrey P. Young is a 32-year veteran of law enforcement and the chief of police for the Tarpon Springs Police Department in Florida. A 1984 graduate of Tarpon Springs High School, he served in the U.S. Air Force as a Security Police officer from 1987 to 1991 before beginning his local law enforcement career as a patrol deputy with the Collier County Sheriff’s Office. Since joining the Tarpon Springs Police Department in 1993, he has served in roles ranging from patrol officer and detective to captain and major, earning promotion to chief in March 2021. A graduate of the FBI National Academy (Session 247), Chief Young also holds degrees in criminal justice from St. Petersburg Junior College and Florida Metropolitan University, as well as a graduate certificate from the University of Virginia.
The Tarpon Springs Police Department has 81 employees, including 57 sworn officers, who serve a community of approximately 26,000 residents and handle an average of 37,500 calls for service annually. The city’s vibrant downtown and world-famous Sponge Docks reflect the community’s Greek heritage and close connection to its residents and visitors.
What was the incident or person in your career that put you on the path to becoming a chief?
While serving in the U.S. Air Force as a Security Police member, I witnessed true leadership from our Squadron Commander, Major Michael Liles. The way he led our 500-member squadron was inspiring. Later, Chiefs Mark LeCouris and Robert Kochen at TSPD modeled leadership traits I still draw from. Most of all, my father, a retired FDNY firefighter, and my mother instilled the values that make me a better person and leader.
What did you want to accomplish, improve or make better in your first 30 days, six months and year as chief?
Having come up through the ranks, I’ve long shared our department’s mission of providing “Excellence in Policing” and “Building a Better Future.” My focus has been on hiring, retaining and promoting those who share this philosophy.
How are you creating an organizational culture that people want to join and stay in?
By fostering a family atmosphere. Every day, I make it a point to walk around and talk with our members. If someone’s facing personal challenges, I reach out to offer help.
How do you make major decisions such as implementing new policies or allocating resources?
I seek input from my administrative staff and from those directly affected, ensuring every major decision is informed by multiple perspectives.
How do you demonstrate value-based leadership behaviors like honesty and integrity?
I live by the saying, “Discipline builds professionalism, and self-discipline builds professionals.” Leading by example is a 24/7 responsibility. I publicly praise our department’s work because I truly believe we have the best police department anywhere.
Lightning leadership round
What leadership book, podcast or seminar have you found invaluable?
“Good to Great” by Jim Collins.
How do you stay organized and on schedule?
I use my Outlook 365 calendar, email reminders and an active to-do list to manage daily priorities.
If your budget request were guaranteed approval, what big purchase would you make?
I’d invest in expanding and hardening our Emergency Operations Center and increasing equipment storage for rescue and storm operations.
What’s one way leaders can show they care about their people?
I personally call all employees during major holidays to wish them and their families well.
How do you recharge after a long day?
I FaceTime with my 3-year-old granddaughter — she always makes my day better.
