Bradenton City Council Member Selected as New Police Chief

Key Information

• New Police Chief: Cramer, a retired assistant chief
• Approval Required: City Council vote on May 28
• Current Chief: Melanie Bevan, retiring in January
• Swearing-In Ceremony: July 8, at 9 a.m. in Historic Courthouse

Cramer, a retired assistant chief of the department, awaits approval from the City Council, which is set to vote on his selection at the May 28 meeting.

Bevan announced her retirement in January and will remain in her position until her successor is sworn in. She has been the chief of the Bradenton department since 2016, following a 29-year career with the St. Petersburg Police Department.

Having lived and worked in the Bradenton community for over three decades, Cramer advanced through the ranks of the Bradenton Police Department, serving as the second-in-command for six years before his retirement, according to Mayor Gene Brown’s statement.

“He exemplifies the leadership, vision, and commitment to community safety that our City needs and expects. I am confident he will build upon the successes established by Chief Melanie Bevan and continue to lead the department with integrity and accountability,” Mayor Brown stated.

Cramer expressed gratitude for his selection, stating, “I am humbled by Mayor Brown’s selection of me to lead the Bradenton Police Department during an exciting phase in its history—including our move to a new Police Headquarters next fall. I’ve dedicated my career to this city, and I am both thrilled and proud to continue it as its Chief of Police.”

The proposed swearing-in ceremony is set for July 8 at 9 a.m. at the Historic Courthouse, located at 1111 6th Ave. West, Bradenton. The public is invited to attend.