Major James Hughes

hughes_major

Investigations Division

Major James Elijah Hughes Sr. is a dedicated law enforcement leader with over 38 years of extensive experience in policing, emergency management, and community engagement. Currently, he oversees the Investigations Division at the Miami Gardens Police Department, where he is responsible for managing Victim Advocates, Crime Scene Investigation, Homicide, Traffic Homicide Investigations (THI) Unit, Violent Crimes, the Special Victims Unit, Property Crimes, and the Special Investigations Sections. His leadership ensures thorough investigations, effective case management, seamless inter-unit coordination, and the successful resolution of complex criminal cases, all while maintaining transparency and fostering community trust.

Previously, Major Hughes served as the commander of the Department’s Administration, Operations, and Support Services Divisions, providing strategic direction and managing diverse teams of sworn officers and civilians. His roles included oversight of units such as Support Services, Special Events, Real-Time Crime Center, and Emergency Operations Center, demonstrating his broad expertise in operational leadership and community policing.

A proud graduate of Springfield College, Major Hughes earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice, graduating magna cum laude. He further enhanced his expertise through rigorous training at the FBI National Academy, completing sessions on Legal Issues for Command Staff, Labor Law Issues for Law Enforcement Administrators, Contemporary Issues in Police, and contemporary policing challenges. His professional development includes advanced courses in executive management, investigation techniques, hostage negotiations, and criminal justice applications.




Major Hughes’s leadership style emphasizes mentoring, team motivation, and operational excellence. His extensive experience spans a broad spectrum of law enforcement functions from criminal investigations and tactical operations to strategic planning and emergency preparedness. In addition to his law enforcement expertise, Major Hughes possesses a wide array of skills that include media relations, spiritual vitality, photography, and training development.

His commitment to service extends beyond policing into community outreach, mentoring programs such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, and faith-based initiatives as a licensed minister. He actively participates in professional organizations—including the FBI National Academy Associates, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE)—ensuring he remains engaged with the latest industry practices and leadership innovations.

Driven by integrity, loyalty, and a passion for service, Major James Elijah Hughes Sr. continues to inspire positive change within his department and the communities he serves, embodying the highest standards of professionalism and community-focused policing.