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Interim City Manager Jim Scholl presents Key West Police Chief Donie Lee a watch and plaque for his 20 years’ service to Key West.

City honors Lee for 20 years service

The Key West City Commission Tuesday night recognized Police Chief Donie Lee for his 20 years of service to the City.

City Manager Jim Scholl presented Chief Lee with a gold watch and a plaque from the Key West Police Department in grateful recognition of his service.

“It’s a real milestone when you work for any municipal government to make it for 20 years,” said Scholl, “and it’s a real significant one when you make it 20 years as a police officer. And it’s an even bigger milestone, because he ain’t done yet!”

Chief Lee joined the Department in 1994. Since his start with the police, he has held every rank within the department. In March of 2008, Chief Lee was appointed as head of the Key West Police Department. He is a fifth generation Conch, and a graduate of Key West High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Florida and an associate’s degree from Florida Keys Community College.

Humbled by a standing ovation by the commission and the audience, Chief Lee said it’s been an honor to serve this city.

“My mother said that 20 years would go by fast,” he quipped, “and she was right. I don’t always say my mother’s right but this time she was and it’s been a heck of a ride.”

Chief Lee called himself the luckiest man in the world because he is now living his childhood dream.

“I would be remiss if I didn’t take a moment to thank the members of the Key West Police Department,” he said. “I’m certainly very proud to serve with the professional men and women of the police department. This community and this commission should be proud of them too.”

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