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The Tampa Police Department recently welcomed 29 new recruits in an emotional swearing-in ceremony, marking a significant milestone as the force is set to surpass 1,000 officers with an additional grant for 30 more.
Among the more poignant moments of the swearing-in event was when two fathers in the department carried on their law enforcement family legacy by welcoming their children among the new recruits.
Tampa Police Officer Thomas Farrell, celebrating his 20th year with the department, proudly pinned the badge onto his son, Riley Farrell, one of the newest officers.
Reflecting on the occasion, Thomas expressed his deep pride in his son.
“I’m extremely proud of him to follow me in this profession and try to make a difference in this community.”
Riley, a criminology graduate from the University of South Florida, shared his childhood perspective.
“Growing up, I saw him and what the profession did for our family and the difference he made in the community,” Riley said.
In another touching moment, father and daughter, TPD Officers Jim Dausch and Calyn Dausch, participated in the badge-pinning tradition.
Officer Jim Dausch was surprised by his daughter’s decision to follow in his footsteps.
“I’m honored that she decided to. She’s a very smart woman,” Dausch said.
Calyn, inspired by her father’s impactful stories and the positive influence he had on the community, echoed that sentiment.
“I heard his stories growing up and saw how much impact it had, and all his friends. I wanted the same thing.”
Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw also spoke on the significance of children choosing the profession of their law enforcement parents.
“When police officers want to send their kids to the police department, that speaks volumes, especially the Tampa Police Department.”
He also highlighted the department’s fortunate position of avoiding the shortage of officers experienced by some others agencies.
“We talked about it in the ceremony how some departments see a shortage of police officers. We’re fortunate not to be in that predicament,” the police chief said.
Early in November, the department received a roughly $4 million grant through the DOJ’s Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program, allowing them to take on an additional 30 officers and to participate in de-escalation training exercises.
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