Cocoa Police Chief Mike Cantaloupe Meets with Local Faith Leaders to Discuss Community Solutions

Chief Cantaloupe retires on December 31

BREVARD COUNTY • COCOA, FLORIDA – Chief Mike Cantaloupe met with local faith leaders Tuesday morning as part of an ongoing dialogue to find positive solutions to issues facing the community.

It was his last meeting as chief before his retirement after 30-years serving the citizens of Cocoa. Among the topics discussed was his upcoming retirement at the end of December, and the process for appointing a new chief of police for the agency.

Newly appointed City Manager Stockton Whitten made an appearance to introduce himself to the group. According to Whitten, the process will be thoughtful, thorough, and transparent.

Other issues discussed included a continuing dialogue regarding homelessness, social services, mental health ideas and solutions, crime, police reform, and future goals to continue the partnership with law enforcement and its faith leaders.

“This group of men and women are our community influencers and it is vital to continue this dialogue,” Chief Cantaloupe said. “The law enforcement profession is facing many challenges and we need to continue and expand these very important partnerships and relationships moving forward.”

Chief Cantaloupe began the series of roundtable meetings with local faith leaders in 2016.

The goal was designed to help foster positive relationships and maintain open communication in order to find effective solutions to societal issues impacting the community and its policing programs and practices.

Pastor Eric Wyzard, who leads the Mercy Church, 1957 Rosetine St. presented the chief with a retirement cake as a show of gratitude for his service and dedication.

Chief Cantaloupe retires on December 31.

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