Attorney General Ashley Moody has acknowledged the efforts of Tampa Police Department's frontline officers during Hurricanes Helene and Milton. At a roll call event on Wednesday, Moody presented the officers with a Thin Line Tribute, recognizing their dedication to maintaining safety in Tampa amid challenging conditions.
"Florida was hit by not one, but two ferocious storms within two weeks," said Attorney General Ashley Moody. "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 expressed gratitude for the officers' service during the hurricanes. "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," he stated. "Their commitment to public safety made a positive difference in our preparation, response and recovery efforts."
The department played a significant role in coordinating evacuations ahead of Hurricane Milton's landfall. All 1,000 TPD officers were involved in evacuating approximately 200,000 residents safely. Throughout the storms, they responded to over 15,000 emergency calls, rescued 135 people and 18 pets, cleared debris from 141 streets, and distributed essential supplies like water and meals.
In addition to evacuation efforts, TPD officers conducted rescues during emergencies. In one instance during Hurricane Milton, they assisted a family trapped after a tree fell through their roof.
Attorney General Moody initiated the Thin Line Tribute program in 2021 as a way to honor law enforcement officers for their everyday contributions toward protecting Floridians.