Lieutenant Colonel Chandler is the Deputy Director of Patrol Operations. In this capacity he provides oversight for all patrol operations statewide. Lieutenant Colonel Robert “Bob” Chandler began his career at FHP in 2002, transitioning from a local law enforcement agency after several years of service. Lieutenant Colonel Chandler was assigned to Troop L-Davie District from the Florida Highway Patrol Academy and, in 2006, was promoted to the rank of Corporal. In 2007, he was promoted to Sergeant, remaining in Troop L. Lieutenant Colonel Chandler was promoted to Lieutenant in 2010 and assigned to the Office of the Inspector General. Lieutenant Colonel Chandler was promoted to Captain in 2012, commanding Commercial Vehicle Enforcement in the Southern Region. In 2015, he was promoted to Major, overseeing Troop J (Commercial Vehicle Enforcement). Lieutenant Colonel Chandler voluntarily transferred back to Patrol Operations and served as the Troop L Troop Commander before his promotion to Lieutenant Colonel of Patrol Operations.

He holds a Master of Public Administration degree from Florida Atlantic University (FAU) and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from FAU. He graduated from the University of Louisville Southern Police Institute 70th Command Officer Development Course, the FDLE Chief Executive Seminar (Class 51), the Northwestern University Executive Management Program, and the Florida Police Chiefs Future Police Chiefs Training Seminar.

In 2018, he received the LEO A.S.I.S. International Chapter 254 Supervisor/Manager of the Year for the Palm Beach and Treasure Coast Chapter. Additionally, he oversaw FHP’s response to multiple high-profile tragic events, including the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School and Fort Lauderdale Airport shootings.