TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw announced on Tuesday that he is stepping down from his position, which he has served in for over three years.
Bercaw submitted a letter to Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, saying that he is leaving the Tampa Police Department after 30 years to pursue a role in academia.
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“I have been afforded a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to continue serving the profession as an Associate Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida’s College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, Department of Criminology, where I will help instruct and coordinate the Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Administration program,” Bercaw wrote. “Teaching, mentoring and developing future leaders have always been among the most rewarding parts of my career, and I look forward to helping shape the next generation of criminal justice professionals through research, experience, and with integrity.”
Castor said Assistance Chief Brett Owen will serve as the acting chief when Bercaw retires. While speaking at a press conference, she said that because there will be a new mayor in 2027, she will let her successor choose the next chief…