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Edward D. Vestel
Chief of Police 
1928-1932

In 1928, Chief Edward D. Vestel, a former Army Captain, instituted the first uniform for the Gainesville Police Department. Chief Vestel also started the first filing system on all individuals arrested that continues today. That same year, the department had its first motorcycle patrol officer, C. E. Strickland. Chief Vestel resigned in July of 1932. Vestel was replaced by Dr. R.A. Berga and was appointed as Chief Deputy Sheriff of the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office by Sheriff R. J. Wells. Vestel operated a private detective agency in Orlando, Florida prior to coming to Gainesville. At this time the population of Gainesville was a little over 10,450 residents.