Speaker Bio
Walter A. McNeil was elected Sheriff of Leon County in November 2016. In his distinguished 40+ year career as a public servant, Sheriff McNeil has led the fight against crime in Tallahassee, has been tapped to lead two state agencies under former Governor Charlie Christ, and has advised the Obama White House, and other governments around the globe, on law enforcement strategies and tactics.
For 10 years at the helm of the Tallahassee Police Department, then Chief McNeil was recognized for his progressive voice and his effective response to citizen concerns. His community policing efforts to control gangs, drugs and juvenile crime earned him numerous honors, including the Tallahassee NAACP Humanitarian Award, Public Sector Businessperson of the Year and the United States DEA Award.
At the same time, he’s been a good neighbor – giving his time and talents to organizations that make a difference in our lives. He has chaired the Heart Walk for the county chapter of the American Heart Association, been honorary co-chair of Leon’s March of Dimes Walk America campaign and served on the boards of the local Boys and Girls Town, Chamber of Commerce and Refuge House. The Sheriff and his family are active members of New Mount Zion AME Church.