Chief of Police Nicholas P. Caristo

Chief Nicholas Caristo brings over 40 years of distinguished law enforcement experience, beginning with a 20-year tenure at the New York City Police Department, where he specialized as an investigator in the Special Victims Unit and as a 9/11 First Responder. 

He joined the Palm Beach Police Department in April 2005, advancing through the ranks from Patrol Officer to Chief of Police in April 2019. Over the years, he served in key roles including the Detective Bureau, Organized Crime Vice and Narcotics Unit, and the Support Services Division. His promotions from Sergeant (2013) to Lieutenant (2015), Captain (2016), Major (2017), and ultimately Chief, reflect his commitment to public safety and organizational leadership.

Chief Caristo has earned 23 Department and Citizen commendations, six Officer of the Month awards, two Kiwanis Officer of the Quarter honors, and the prestigious Sons of the American Revolution Law Enforcement Commendation Medal. 

He holds a B.S. in Criminal Justice from SUNY Empire State College and an M.S. in Organizational Leadership from Palm Beach Atlantic University. He is also a graduate of the University of Louisville’s Southern Police Institute Command Officers Development Course.