Tampa, Florida -- Tampa's new police chief is finishing up his first week on the job. It's a new role for Tampa's top cop, who 27 years ago was first sworn in as an officer.
"My ultimate goal when I got sworn in back in 1988 was to be a police officer. It was the highlight of my career to be an officer," said Eric Ward.
Ward sat down with 10 News This Morning anchor Ian Reitz to discuss what's next for the department. His top priority is making sure the community and police department have a great bond.
"What we want our officers to do is get out of their cars and speak to people, find out what's going on in the community and through that effort I think that bond between our community will be further strengthen because they see we are concerned," said Ward.
Ward added that outreach is key.
"You have to listen. You have to listen to the community. In doing so, the relationship between the community and law enforcement is only strengthened. It's when people turn a blind eye to complaints is when you have a trust issue. We have a good relationship with our community and it speaks for itself," said Ward.
Reitz asked the chief about two other big issues: First, the recent investigations by the Tampa Bay Times into higher bike citations of African Americans by the police department.
"Of course it concerns me. That's why we invited the DOJ to look at the process."
Ward also answered questions about the 10 Investigates story that showed the department is putting more African Americans behind bars than any other racial group.
"It's subject to how you report the numbers. That's why the Department of Justice came down. They'll look at everything and if they see changes, those changes will be implemented immediately."
Growing up, the chief went through a PAL, the Police Athletic League. It's where officers work with teens, many who may be considered at risk.
"Prior to attending PAL I had no contact with law enforcement officers, so I based my opinion from others in the community that had negative encounters. Attending PAL allowed me an opportunity to interact with police officers who truly had the kids/youth best interest at heart. They provided us some of the basic skills needed to be successful and help change the mindset of police officers assigned to patrol one of the most challenging areas of the city," said Ward.
Ward takes over for Jane Castor who retired earlier this month.
