Frank Rubino Steps in as Interim Chief of Longboat Key Police Department
Deputy Chief Frank Rubino officially assumed the role of interim chief of police for the Longboat Key Police Department on Jan. 11. The appointment follows the departure of former Chief of Police George Turner, who announced his resignation in December 2024 due to Town Manager Howard Tipton’s desire to take the department in a new direction.
With 44 years of law enforcement experience, Rubino has been with the Longboat Key Police Department since 2013. He acknowledged the transition as a significant change but expressed confidence in the department's ability to adapt. He highlighted that the department is fully staffed and boasts a diverse range of experience among its officers.
Under Turner's leadership, the department achieved its first accreditation in February 2024, a milestone Rubino intends to uphold. His previous responsibilities as deputy chiefeing the budget and department operations, which included overse prepared him for his new position.
Future Plans and Improvements
Rubino plans to maintain the department's current course while exploring enhancements, particularly in community outreach programs. Efforts will focus on a bicyclist and pedestrian safety initiative and strengthening community relations through meetings with homeowner associations and educational programs.
Additionally, Rubino aims to refine hurricane response procedures in collaboration with town and fire rescue officials. He also seeks to initiate joint training exercises with the fire rescue department, including active shooter drills.
Town Manager Tipton has outlined Rubino’s transition steps, which include fostering collaboration with other town departments and improving internal communications. A new public information officer, Tina Adams, will oversee public safety communications, further aligning the police and fire departments.
Rubino's Law Enforcement Journey
Rubino's extensive career began after serving in the United States Marine Corps. He has held positions with the Tamarac and Plantation Police Departments, rising through the ranks from patrol officer to detective sergeant and commander of investigations. His experience includes overseeing major cases such as homicides and robberies.
Later, he served as a special agent with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), focusing on integrity investigations,imes. Rubino also worked with the Glades County Sheriff’s Office o violent crimes, and economic crn a multi-agency task force targeting money laundering and collaborated with federal and state agencies.
Rubino joined the Longboat Key Police Department as deputy chief under former Chief Pete Cumming, bringing his wealth of experience to the role. Now, as interim chief, he is dedicated to guiding the department through its next chapter and continuing its commitment to public safety and community engagement.