Tampa Republic

TAMPA - The Tampa Police Department is set to participate in the annual Earl Silas Bridging the Gap event, organized by the Derrick Brooks Charities Youth Programs. The event, scheduled for December 9th, 2023, will take place at the Springhill Park and Community Center in Tampa, Florida.

The Bridging the Gap event aims to foster positive relationships between the community and law enforcement. Tampa police officers, alongside other first responders, will engage in various activities, including kickball, a 3-point shoot-out, and a free-throw contest.

Chief Lee Bercaw expressed his excitement about the event, stating, "The Earl Silas Bridging the Gap event is an incredible way for the community to come together and build positive relationships with police officers. We are proud to be a part of this event and hope that members of our community join us for an amazing Saturday."

Deputy Chief Johnson emphasized the importance of creating a safe and comfortable environment for community members to interact with law enforcement. "We want to create an atmosphere where people feel safe and comfortable talking to our officers," Deputy Chief Johnson said. "By using sports-themed environments to create opportunities for interaction, we hope this event will help us continue building trust and relationships within our community, especially with the local kids."

The Tampa Police Department encourages members of the community to attend the event and engage with officers in a friendly and supportive atmosphere.

For more information about the event, please contact Master Patrol Officer Gig Brown at the Tampa Police Headquarters. Media inquiries can be directed to Officer Filer, Stefon, at the Tampa Police Department.

This annual event serves as a testament to the Tampa Police Department's commitment to building strong relationships with the community and creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.tampa.gov/news/2023-12/tampa-police-participate-annual-earl-silas-bridging-gap-event-133006