Tampa’s new police chief said he’s frustrated by the unsolved murders in Seminole Heights.
- "Interim" tag removed from Brian Dugan's position on Nov. 7
- Dugan working on interim basis since retirement of Chief Eric Ward
- Dugan in public eye since Seminole Heights shootings began
“It’s not moving along as fast as we would like,” said Tampa Police Chief Brian Dugan.
Tampa’s mayor officially named Dugan police chief this week. Dugan had been working in the role unofficially since the retirement of Chief Eric Ward.
That interim role put Dugan in the public eye after three homicides in Seminole Heights last month. Dugan decided to hold a press conference early on to alert the community that the homicides may be connected.
“There’s no handbook for dealing with this type of situation and it’s been a quick study,” Dugan said.”But we have some very good people officers in this department and I have relied on them.”
Dugan said there have been no other incidents, but there is still an increased police presence in Seminole Heights. He said he hopes to catch the person before someone else is hurt or killed, and leads are still coming in.
“We are working hard," Dugan said. "We are reviewing video and we’re eliminating suspects.”
Dugan said he hasn’t gotten much sleep since becoming interim chief. He worries a lot.
Now, the official role will carry even more responsibility. But Dugan said he is ready to lead.