VIDEO: AG Moody Recognizes Frontline Tampa Police Officers with Thin Line Tribute for Exemplary Hurricane Response

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.-Attorney General Ashley Moody recognized the Tampa Police Department's frontline officers for their tireless efforts during Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. At TPD's final Hurricane Deployment Roll Call Wednesday, Attorney General Moody honored the officers with a Thin Line Tribute. The tribute honors the commitment of the TPD frontline officers who worked throughout the natural disasters to keep Tampa safe.

Attorney General Ashley Moody said, "Florida was hit by not one, but two ferocious storms within two weeks. Unfazed, our frontline law enforcement officers worked before, during and in the aftermath of both major hurricanes, all in an effort to protect Floridians and help our state recover-some neglecting their own property and personal safety to serve the citizens of Tampa. On behalf of the state of Florida, I want to say thank you to these selfless heroes with our Thin Line Tribute."

Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said, "This public roll call officially ending our hurricane deployment is an opportunity to express our gratitude to all those who faithfully served the community during Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Their commitment to public safety made a positive difference in our preparation, response and recovery efforts. While we have seen significant progress, we know many are still recovering from the storms. We remain committed to providing ongoing assistance, supporting those affected and continuing our work of making Tampa safer, together."

TPD played a critical role in coordinating evacuation efforts prior to the landfall of Milton. All 1,000 TPD law enforcement officers assisted in safely evacuating approximately 200,000 citizens. Before, during and after the storm, officers responded to more than 15,000 emergency calls, rescued 135 Tampa citizens and 18 pets, cleaned 141 streets of debris and delivered 5,500 bottles of water and individual meals.

In addition to helping with evacuation efforts, officers conducted rescues. In one instance, officers helped a family in the middle of Hurricane Milton stuck in a home after a falling tree smashed through the roof.

Attorney General Moody launched Thin Line Tribute in 2021 to recognize the daily efforts of frontline officers who work to protect Floridians. Attorney General Moody created Thin Line Tribute to give law enforcement officers the recognition they greatly deserve but may not always receive.

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