Expand / Collapse search
☰

Tampa NYE celebrations bring increased TPD presence

By
Published  December 30, 2024 10:09pm EST
Hillsborough County
FOX 13 News

Safety plans in Tampa for New Year's Eve

FOX 13's Genevieve Curtis reports on the Tampa Police Department mobilizing all special units as they prepare for big crowds around the Bay Area for New Year's Eve celebrations.

The Brief

    • Between parades, sporting events, and New Year's celebrations, police are expecting large crowds around the city as 2024 ends.
    • Regarding safety, the police department is making a full show of force, mobilizing their horse and bike patrols, and monitoring activities from the air.
    • Officers will also be in plain clothes, blending into the crowds, meaning they may not even know they are there.

TAMPA, Fla. - It is an exciting time of year, as Tampa hosts visitors and locals looking for a good time.

Between parades, sporting events, and New Year's celebrations, police are expecting large crowds around the city as 2024 ends.

Fireworks being lit from the Tampa Riverwalk.

Fireworks being lit from the Tampa Riverwalk.

"This is an exciting time for our community, businesses and visitors. We want everyone to be safe," said Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw. 

READ: Reserve officer shoots man who threatened police, reached into his pocket: TPD

Regarding safety, the police department is making a full show of force. 

They have all their specialized units mobilized, including their horse and bike patrols, and they'll be monitoring activities from the air. 

TPD officers on horses.

TPD officers on horses.

Officers will also be in plain clothes, blending into the crowds, meaning they may not even know they are there. 

As the city buzzes with good cheer, they don't want any buzzed driving. 

Last year, during NYE, TPD arrested 40 people for driving under the influence.

The chief emphasized they will have DUI patrol around the area.

READ: Suspect crashes, dies, after fleeing attempted traffic stop: FHP

"Don't let your new year start out in the back of one of our police cars," said Bercaw.

TPD helicopter that the department will be utilized on NYE.

TPD helicopter that the department will be utilized on NYE.

As we count down to 2025, Bercaw says he is counting on the Tampa Bay community to act responsibly.  

"We need everybody's eyes and ears. Let's all do our part to keep our city safe this New Year," said Bercaw.

Press play above to watch FOX 13 News live:

    STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 13 TAMPA:

    Hillsborough CountyTampaTampa Police DepartmentHolidaysCrime and Public Safety