PUBLIC SERVICE: Palm Bay Police Promotes 13-Year Veteran Sergeant Shane Mertens to Lieutenant

13 years of service to the department

BREVARD COUNTY • PALM BAY, FLORIDA — The Palm Bay Police Department has promoted Sergeant Shane Mertens to Lieutenant. He joined the department in August 2011 and has dedicated 13 years of service.

He has held various roles throughout his career, including Patrol, Crime Suppression Unit, and Field Training Officer.

He was later promoted to Corporal before being promoted to Sergeant, where he supervised Patrol, Crime Suppression, and the Special Victims Unit.

In addition to his primary responsibilities, he has been an active member of our SWAT Team for 12 years, most recently serving as the Assistant Team Commander. His expertise, dedication, and leadership have made a lasting impact on his colleagues and the community.

The Palm Bay Police Department serves the largest city in Brevard County. The department is dedicated to ensuring public safety, preventing crime, and fostering community relationships through proactive policing and outreach programs.

Key Functions & Responsibilities

■ Law Enforcement & Crime Prevention: The PBPD works to maintain order, enforce laws, and investigate criminal activities.
■ Community Policing: Officers engage with residents through neighborhood watch programs, school resource officer programs, and public safety education initiatives.
■ Emergency Response: The department responds to emergencies, including violent crimes, traffic accidents, and natural disasters.
■ Specialized Units: The PBPD has units such as SWAT, K-9, narcotics enforcement, and cybercrime investigation.

The department is led by a Chief of Police, supported by deputy chiefs, lieutenants, and officers assigned to various divisions. It operates 24/7, patrolling Palm Bay’s extensive residential and commercial areas.

Community Engagement–PBPD actively participates in initiatives like:

■ Coffee with a Cop: A program that fosters dialogue between officers and residents.
■ Citizen’s Police Academy: Educating the public about law enforcement operations.
■ Crime Prevention Programs: Encouraging community involvement in crime reduction.

The department leverages body cameras, digital forensics, automated license plate readers (ALPR), and data-driven policing to enhance safety and accountability. PBPD offers competitive career opportunities, training programs, and incentives for new recruits, lateral transfers, and civilian employees.

With a commitment to integrity, professionalism, and community service, the Palm Bay Police Department continues to evolve in its mission to protect and serve the residents of Palm Bay, Florida.

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