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Chief of Police
Carmel Police Department
Drake Sterling initially got into public safety because he wanted to help people in crisis. But as his position evolved into leadership, he found he was able to support those who serve “and foster even better relationships with the community by leading others.” Today, Sterling manages and leads 161 officers and 41 support staff within the Carmel Police Department. In 2024, his team rolled out a “drone first responder” program, only the second in Indiana and one of only about 25 in the country. It gives Carmel police the ability to launch drones almost immediately upon receiving an emergency dispatch and enables its operator to relay important information via the radio to other responding units.
Getting here: In high school, Sterling found a mentor—his school resource officer—who taught him what it was like to give back and to put other’s needs before his own. “From that moment on, I never wavered from my desire to become a police officer.” He joined the Zionsville Police Department in 2010 and moved into leadership in 2014. He joined Carmel PD as chief in February 2024.
First job: serving hot dogs at a local hot dog restaurant in La Porte at age 16
Givebacks: board member, Carmel Youth Assistance Program, Carmel Clay Heroes Club, Hamilton County Cherish Center, Hamilton County Community Corrections Executive Board and Indiana Crime Gun Task Force Executive Board
Meaningful moment: Attending the FBI National Academy in 2023. “I generally considered myself a good leader prior to the FBINA, but it was there that I learned the value of leadership in public safety.”
Lesson learned: “Growth is a constant, and it must be embraced. I understand that I must adapt and grow each and every day.”•
Check out more Forty Under 40 honorees.
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