Mayor Jane Castor, Chief Lee Bercaw, and the entire Tampa Police Department will formally recognize the promotion of fifty members of the department in a ceremony to be held on Friday, September 22, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. in Ballroom C of the Tampa Convention Center. Promotions include the following ranks: Deputy Chief, Major, Captain, Lieutenant, Sergeant, Corporal, Detective, Public Safety Telecommunications Manager & Supervisors, and Assistant Supervisor of Evidence Services.
“I am proud to witness this new generation of leaders bring their own unique and diverse perspectives and approaches to supporting the mission of our department and continue to foster our partnerships with the community, in the shared goal of making Tampa safer, together,” said Chief Bercaw. “Those selected for promotion are the future of the Tampa Police Department and they have already proven their commitment to quality community service and public safety."
The ceremony will include remarks from Mayor Castor and Chief Bercaw, as well as a formal presentation of certificates and badges for each promoted officer. A short reception will follow with light refreshments.
Included in those being promoted is Deputy Chief Ruth Cate, who is the highest-ranking Asian-American officer to ever serve the Tampa Police Department. Her law enforcement interest began as a Police Explorer with the Temple Terrace Police Department when she was 13 years old.
The Tampa Police Department is committed to providing quality law enforcement services to its citizens and looks forward to celebrating the accomplishments of those being promoted with their families, friends, and community members at this event.