Coconut Creek Police Chief Albert "Butch" Arenal is hanging up his badge amidst a flurry of criticism and controversy. The top cop announced his retirement Monday, just ahead of a looming city commission meeting to hash out concerns raised by an external probe into his leadership and departmental culture. Arenal has been at the helm since 2015, but will now depart office by June 20 after a 44-page report detailed serious issues within his ranks, according to TapInto.net.
City spokeswoman Yvonne Lopez praised Arenal, saying, "Appointed in 2015, Chief Arenal has served with distinction, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of Coconut Creek residents." However, a chilling report released last week described a "toxic work" environment, noted TapInto.net. The review initiated by the city exposed allegations of favoritism, retaliatory behavior, and inappropriate comments that have led to dismal morale among officers.
Direct fallout from report includes revelations of Arenal's use of racially insensitive language and multiple instances of employees feeling undercut and belittled. In a damning anecdote, records supervisor Linda Tropepe said she was scolded so harshly by Arenal over a suggestion to live stream meetings, she "cried all the way home," according to TapInto.net. This and other examples of the department's unstable work atmosphere underscore the severe criticisms that have shadowed Arenal's final days in office.
As next steps unfold, the city is committed to ensuring "a smooth transition as the city continues to prioritize public safety and internal cohesion," articulated by Lopez. City Manager Sheila Rose added emphasis on fortifying internal relationships and community engagement as they navigate these turbulent waters, as reported by TapInto.net. The interim police chief is set to be appointed by the end of this week, anchoring a fresh start for a department in clear need of redirection and reform.
Meanwhile, this announcement echoes that of Margate's police chief Joe Galaska's departure following a no-confidence vote, illustrating a growing climate of accountability and scrutiny among law enforcement leadership in Broward County. With Arenal's career curtain call, many eyes will be on Coconut Creek and how it moves forward from this leadership shake-up.
