Longboat Key Police Chief George Turner to Step Down in January
Longboat Key Police Chief George Turner will step down from his role and leave the department at the end of January 2025. Town Manager Howard Tipton informed police department personnel on December 12 that Turner would officially step down on January 11 and transition out of the town by January 24.
Turner’s departure comes after nearly five decades in law enforcement and two periods of service with the Longboat Key Police Department, first from 2001 to 2007 and then again beginning in 2021. During his tenure, Turner successfully led the department to its first state accreditation, achieved in February 2024, fulfilling a key goal set at the time of his hiring.
In a memo to staff, Tipton acknowledged Turner’s long-standing service and contributions to the Longboat Key community. Discussions will soon begin regarding the next steps for selecting the department’s new leadership. Deputy Chief Frank Rubino will serve as Acting Chief during the transition.
Turner’s law enforcement career began in 1976 in New York, where he worked as a part-time officer and rescue diver. He rose to deputy chief before relocating to Florida in 2001. Turner initially joined Longboat Key as a patrol captain but left in 2007 to serve as police chief in Brooksville, where he successfully led the department to its first accreditation.
After retiring in 2018 and a brief role with the U.S. Marshals Service, Turner returned to Longboat Key in 2021. Under his leadership, the police department achieved new professional recognition and accreditation levels.
As Turner prepares to retire, he leaves a lasting legacy of progress and dedication to the Longboat Key community. His leadership and commitment to excellence have strengthened the department and enhanced public safety on the island. With Deputy Chief Rubino stepping into the acting role, the department is expected to maintain its focus on accreditation standards and community service. At the same time, the search for a permanent chief begins.
Turner’s departure marks the conclusion of a distinguished law enforcement career defined by his pursuit of improvement and excellence across every department he has led.