Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw is getting a unique three-year deal to continue as the city’s top cop

TAMPA, Fla. – The city of Tampa’s top cop will stay on the job for at least three more years after city council members unanimously approved Police Chief Lee Bercaw’s new contract Thursday.

The deal is unique and allows Bercaw to retire in September, only to be rehired by the city the next day with a $36,000 raise, bringing his salary to about $240,000. The move will allow Bercaw to simultaneously tap into his pension, worth at least $96,000.

“We contribute to our pension, so it’s an investment we make throughout our career,” Bercaw said after the meeting.

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The plan caused confusion last month and the council decided to postpone the vote until this week. Prior to the vote, the chief received high praise from community members and council members.

“I’m not easily impressed, but Bercaw has shown integrity and leadership and has moved this administration in the right direction by building a healthier and safe community,” said Tonya Lewis, a Tampa resident who spoke during public comment .

“The real positive in this vote is stability for the Tampa Police Department,” added Council Member Luis Viera. “I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: We’ve had four police chiefs in the last four years, including interim police chiefs. We don’t need a fifth.’

Bercaw said he’s ready to continue with the same strategies that made him so popular.

READ: The Tampa Police Department is launching new technology to provide real-time updates for crime victims

“I want to continue the great work we’re doing,” the chief said. Our emphasis on reducing crime through community policing is making significant progress. And we want to continue that forward momentum.”

Bercaw’s new salary will reportedly be in line with those of the chefs in Orlando and Miami.

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