Captain Elise Dillard
In June of 2015, Captain Dillard made history, by becoming the first African American female in the history of the Miami-Dade Police Department to hold the position of Special Response Team Commander (Commonly known as a SWAT Commander). As a SWAT Commander, she was responsible for coordination of Dignitary Protection details, execution of various high profile search warrants, response to call-out situations and active shooter scenes, as well as commanding the Bicycle Response Team, and chairing the Department’s Mobile Field Force Committee. Her command of the SWAT team highlighted her tactical skills and abilities, and earned her great respect and admiration. Upon being promoted, Captain Dillard commanded the entire Tactical Operations Section, where she was in charge of the SWAT, Bomb, and Canine Units.
Born and raised in Miami-Dade County’s Brownsville Community, Captain Dillard has worked hard to set a positive example for the youth in her community. She believes in giving back, through mentoring and volunteerism with organizations like the Embrace Young Girls Foundation, 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project, First Tee Miami, and Wounded Warrior Soldier Project. She also serves as the Vice President of Progressive Officers Club, and the Sergeant-At-Arms for the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, which both serve to help build better police/community relations, make a positive impact within neglected and needy communities.
