Crime & Safety

Tampa Names New Top Cop

Assistant Chief Eric Ward will take over when Chief Jane Castor retires May 8.

A familiar face will take over as Tampa Police Department’s chief when Jane Castor retires next week.

Mayor Bob Buckhorn announced Thursday afternoon that Assistant Chief Eric Ward has been selected for the top post.

Ward, 47, grew up in Tampa and has served 26 years on the local force, The Tampa Tribune reported. He will become the agency’s second black chief. Bennie Holder was the first.

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Castor is set to retire May 8.

To read more about Ward, visit TBO.com.

Find out what's happening in Tampafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

What do you think of the city’s choice? Share your ideas by commenting below!

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