North Miami Beach Police Chief Richard Rand Submits Resignation

MIAMI (CBSMiami) - North Miami Beach Police Chief Richard Rand is leaving.

Rand has submitted his retirement paperwork, it will be effective in December.

"I just saw him briefly in the parking lot, passing each other, and I just told him that he has my full support and I care for him and I'm appreciative of his dedication," said North Miami Beach Mayor Anthony DeFillipo.

The mayor claimed the resignation came after issues within the walls of City Hall, specifically City Manager Arthur H. Sorey, III.

"The chief has not been able to do his job without being micromanaged by the city manager," says DeFillipo. "There's been a lot of bullying and being pushed around."

The mayor fears if the chief follows through with the resignation it will have grave impacts on the city.

"It's really going to demoralize our police department, our officers and our staff and people there leaving here every day," says DeFillipo.

"We have a chief here who has a tenure of over 27 years in the City of North Miami Beach Police Department," he added.

CBS4 News reached out to City Manager Sorey for a response.

"I was caught off guard by the news of the resignation of Chief Richard Rand. I am respectful of the 25 years of service he has provided to the City of North Miami Beach. I respect him as the Chief of Police and hope to reach a resolution soon. As of today, his resignation date is effective December 15, 2021. At this current time, I am evaluating my next steps. An announcement of future leadership will be forthcoming." – Arthur H. Sorey, III

Rand was raised in the city and was appointed chief in February of this year.