Joel Bello, Esq., is a seasoned public safety executive, attorney, and strategic advisor with more than two decades of leadership experience in law enforcement, emergency management, and organizational operations. He currently serves as Chief of Staff to James Reyes, where he plays a central role in advancing the City’s strategic vision, coordinating high-level initiatives, and driving operational excellence across divisions.
Mr. Bello began his career with the Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD), serving for 22 years and attaining the rank of Major. Throughout his tenure, he held critical leadership roles across specialized units, including the Narcotics Bureau (Tactical Narcotics Team), Robbery Intervention Detail, Gang Street Section, and the Multi-Agency Gang Task Force. He later commanded elite operations as leader of the Special Response Team (SRT) and the Priority Response Team (PRT), and served as Lieutenant and ultimately Major within the Homeland Security Bureau, overseeing intelligence and investigations.
A recognized innovator in public safety strategy, Mr. Bello co-authored MDPD’s Mass Casualty Attack Plan, which continues to guide active shooter response protocols. He also co-developed departmental training curricula and was instrumental in creating the Priority Response Team—an 81-member, full-time tactical unit designed to respond to critical incidents across Miami-Dade County. As SRT Commander, he modernized training by integrating performance psychology and mental skills development into tactical operations.
In 2019, Mr. Bello earned his Juris Doctor from St. Thomas University College of Law and transitioned into legal practice, focusing on negligent security and premises liability. He has represented businesses in complex litigation involving catastrophic injury and wrongful death, while also advising organizations on risk mitigation and security best practices. He additionally served as an adjunct professor, teaching Cybercrimes Law and Criminal Procedure.
Mr. Bello holds a master’s degree in performance psychology with a concentration in leadership, reinforcing his commitment to high-performance teams and evidence-based leadership practices. In his current role, he leverages his unique blend of operational, legal, and strategic expertise to support executive decision-making, enhance interagency collaboration, and implement policies that strengthen public safety outcomes.