HCBA Lawyer Magazine No. 34, Issue 5 | Page 29

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with any police-related questions , concerns , or issues .
I am grateful to continue my career in public service as an Assistant City Attorney advising the Tampa Police Department . As the daughter of a Tampa police officer and former prosecutor , I am comfortable quicky assessing volatile and complex situations and offering critical support and advice . I also direct the TPD legal unit which consists of three attorneys , a police officer , and six additional support staff of paralegals , public records coordinators , and legal assistants . The Unit is responsible for filing petitions for risk protection orders , evaluating and initiating forfeiture proceedings , responding to public records requests , prosecuting city ordinance violations , and reviewing and revising city ordinances and resolutions .
The most rewarding aspect of my day to day is when I teach a class of newly-hired police officers how to testify effectively in court , or when I help acquire equipment or software that will allow our officers to do their jobs more efficiently and safely . As a Tampa native and resident , it is an honor and privilege to serve this great city and the men and women whose mission is to reduce crime , improve quality of life , and make Tampa safer , together . n
Author : Megan Newcomb – City of Tampa , Tampa Police Department , Legal Advisor
M A y - J u N 2 0 2 4 | H C B A L A W y E R
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