MCSO’s Kellenberger promoted; headed to Islamorada patrol division

Sherriff Rick Ramsay presents the lieutenant insignia to Chuck Kellenberger. He will head the patrol division in IslamorAda beginning Jan. 13. SARA MATTHIS/Keys Weekly

On Jan. 9, Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay announced the promotion of Sgt. Chuck Kellenberger to the rank of lieutenant. 

Kellenberger is to head up the patrol division in Islamorada, replacing Lt. Mike DiGiovanni who is being transferred to the training division. Kellenberger is one of four lieutenants in the Keys’ patrol division.

Kellenberger, 48, has spent 25 years on the force. Most recently, he’s worked in the Middle Keys district. He started as a cadet, then became a dispatcher while also serving as a reserve deputy before attending the academy and joining patrol. In addition, he is a certified firefighter and EMT and serves as a volunteer.

“I am very pleased to be promoting a hometown officer,” said Ramsay. “He’s a hard worker and represents me well, leading by example. He enforces the law with professionalism.”

Kellenberger said his favorite part of the job is, simply, helping. 

“It’s satisfying. I grew up in this community and admire how everyone here helps everyone else. When I was growing up, folks extended a hand and I want to do the same thing,” he said. “I look forward to joining Capt. Corey Bryan and continue to work with the team. This is my home, this is my family.”

In his new position, Kellenberger will be tasked with carrying out Ramsay’s vision of community policing and getting to know the business leaders and partners in the Upper Keys.   

Sara Matthis thinks community journalism is important, but not serious; likes weird and wonderful children (she has two); and occasionally tortures herself with sprint-distance triathlons, but only if she has a good chance of beating her sister.