On Monday afternoon, the Tampa Police Department announced the promotions of employees. Three of the thirteen individuals promoted are African American.
There were 56 candidates eligible for promotion, of which 9 were African American.
The promotions go into effect on Sunday, November 25th. Chief Jane Castor promoted four Sergeants to the rank of Lieutenant.
Lt. Calvin Johnson is a 12-year veteran with the department. He has served as a supervisor in Districts One and Three. His career includes five years serving as a detective and two years as a patrol supervisor.
As a Sergeant in District Three, Lt. Johnson dedicated his time to serving as a role model for at-risk kids in the area, attending public meetings, and creating positive working relationship with the residents.
He graduated from the University of South Florida and has a B. A. degree in Criminology, and a M. A. degree in Public Administration. Lt. Johnson is the father of two children.
Lt. Richard O’Connor is a 24-year veteran with the department. He has worked with the U. S. Marshal’s Service to establish the department’s first Fugitive Apprehension Task Unit in 2009. To date, the task force has arrested more than 1,000 violent offenders, including 142 on homicide-related charges.
Lt. O’Connor is married and the father of four children. He earned his B. S. degree in Business Management from the University of South Florida.
Lt. John Preyer is a 23-year veteran of the department. He has spent several years in Uniform District Two. Lt. Preyer has also served as a member of the Tactical Response Team and Honor Guard.
He attended Wagner College and is married to police Sgt. Susan Bridges-Preyer, and they are the parents of 3 children.
Lt. Kevin Schoolmeesters is a 16-year veteran, who was responsible for the Family Violence and Sex Crimes Unit. Lt. Schoolmeesters earned his B. S. Degree in Criminal Justice from Eastern Michigan University. He is married and the father of two daughters.
Chief Castor promoted Lela Davis, Sean Davis, Les Richardson, and Sam Rojka to the position of Sergeant. Sean Davis and Les Richardson are African American.
Matt Kamat, John Miller, Terry Sims, Matt Smith, and Jason Tkach will fill vacancies as Corporals or Detectives.
Ms. Janelle McGregor, spokesperson for the Tampa Police Department said, “The department is starting a grassroots effort that includes mentoring and coaching so that we can increase the number of officers eligible for promotion in the future.”
Pictured: Lt. Calvin Johnson is shown with his son, C. J., and daughter, Layla
