The Town of Surfside swore in Jay Matelis as its interim chief of police on August 10. He was sworn in by Town Clerk Sandra N. McCready, with Acting Town Manager Mario A. Diaz in attendance.
Interim Chief of Police Jay Matelis began his law enforcement career in 2002. A Miami native, he earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Miami in 1998. He joined the Surfside Police Department in 2008.
Throughout his career, he has advanced through the ranks, serving as sergeant, lieutenant, captain, major and now interim chief of police. His extensive experience spans a broad range of operational, investigative and executive assignments, including uniform patrol, criminal investigations, internal affairs, training, traffic enforcement, media relations, community policing, parking operations, administration, communications and emergency management.
Interim Chief Matelis is committed to community-oriented policing and believes that strong partnerships between law enforcement, residents, businesses and local government are essential to maintaining a safe and vibrant community. His leadership philosophy emphasizes transparency, collaboration, professionalism and accountability.
He is a graduate of the University of Louisville’s Southern Police Institute Command Officer Development Course and the FBI-LEEDA Leadership Trilogy, where he further developed his executive leadership and organizational management skills.
Interim Chief Matelis’ career reflects a steady progression from frontline policing to executive leadership, guided by an unwavering commitment to public service, organizational excellence and the safety and well-being of the Surfside community.