Tampa Police Department Thanks Partner Police Agencies for Hurricane Milton Response sent

TAMPA, FL. (October 15, 2024) -- This afternoon, the Tampa Police Department will host a hurricane response appreciation event at 5:00 pm, at Raymond James Stadium. This event will recognize the tireless efforts of every Tampa Police officer and professional staff member who worked in the preparation, response, and recovery efforts related to Hurricane Milton, as well as the 81 police officers from partnering agencies, as far as 260 miles away, who provided crucial mutual aid.

"While it was all hands on deck for every City of Tampa employee, we are incredibly thankful to every police officer who willingly responded from across Florida to help our city recover quickly," said Mayor Jane Castor. "Hurricane Milton may have hit us on the Gulf Coast, but its impact was felt throughout our state and our neighbors jumped in without hesitation to help when they were needed most."

"I am profoundly grateful to the officers from across Florida who answered the call after Hurricane Milton,” added Chief Lee Bercaw. “Their response and unwavering dedication to public safety provided an additional layer of comfort and reassurance to our residents during a time of uncertainty. Working in partnership with our officers, their actions exemplify the very best of law enforcement and serve as a testament to public service."

Mayor Castor and Chief Bercaw will address the dedicated officers and professional staff of the Tampa Police Department, as well as the visiting officers before they depart for their hometowns. 

Partnering Police Agencies:
• Ft. Lauderdale Police Department
• Lauderhill Police Department
• Margate Police Department
• North Palm Beach Police Department
• North Port Police Department
• Palm Beach Gardens Police Department
• Pembroke Pines Police Department
• Plantation Police Department
• St. Augustine Police Department
• Tavares Police Department

The Tampa Police Department extends its sincere gratitude to these agencies and their dedicated officers who responded after Hurricane Milton and helped us make Tampa safer, together.