CELEBRATING THE RETIREMENT OF CHIEF LEE BERCAW

On 2026-07-27, Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL-14) delivered a floor speech titled "CELEBRATING THE RETIREMENT OF CHIEF LEE BERCAW" in the House.

CELEBRATING THE RETIREMENT OF CHIEF LEE BERCAW

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 122 (Monday, July 27, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 122 (Monday, July 27, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E747] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING THE RETIREMENT OF CHIEF LEE BERCAW ______ HON. KATHY CASTOR of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 27, 2026 Ms. CASTOR of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable career and dedicated service of the City of Tampa Chief of Police Lee Bercaw. For more than 30 years in law enforcement, including three and a half years as Chief of Police, he has exemplified unwavering commitment, integrity, and excellence. His forward-thinking, consistent leadership and steadfast commitment to safety has lifted the City of Tampa and its citizens. Chief Lee Bercaw is two-time alumnus of the University of South Florida, having earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminology in 1997 and a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Administration in 2012. In 2021, Bercaw also earned a Doctorate Degree in Criminal Justice with a specialization in Homeland Security from Saint Leo University. Chief Lee Bercaw joined the Tampa Police Department in 1996 as a reserve officer and patrolled the streets of Tampa. He then served as a police officer for six years. Bercaw worked his way up in the department before being appointed as the Chief of Police by Mayor Jane Castor in 2023. During his tenure, he implemented initiatives for advancing safety, fostering relationships and trust within the community. He will leave the Tampa Police Department as an advocate for community-oriented policing and leadership, stating, ``teaching, mentoring and developing future leaders has 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, integrity and public service.'' Bercaw's career has been rooted in mentorship and leadership and will only continue to flourish at the University of South Florida as an associate professor of instruction in the Master of Arts in Criminal Justice program. Chief Bercaw will officially retire on August 6, 2026. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the neighbors across the Tampa Bay community, I am proud to celebrate the selfless service of Chief Lee Bercaw at the Tampa Police Department. Chief Lee Bercaw is a shining example of engaging and leading the community with a culture of respect, safety and trust. ____________________