TAMPA, FL. (February 5, 2026)- The Tampa Police Department has concluded a three-month initiative titled, “Operation: Safer Streets,” resulting in 55 arrests.
Operation: Safer Streets shifted focus beyond standard narcotics enforcement to prioritize the apprehension of chronic offenders, leading to the recovery of a firearm, fentanyl, cocaine, and other illegal narcotics. By identifying and removing individuals with extensive violent criminal histories, the primary drivers of crime that impact neighborhood quality of life are being directly addressed.
“It’s traumatic for families to see drugs sold in their parks and neighborhoods,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “The result of this operation and arrests of these 55 drug dealers clearly disrupted the availability of illegal narcotics in our community. Through our strong partnerships, we are demonstrating our shared commitment to making our city safer for everyone, one block at a time.”
This initiative also highlights the ongoing partnership between Tampa Police, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the State Attorney’s Office (SAO) and the United States Attorney’s Office Middle District of Florida (USAO – MDFL).
“Operation Safe Streets was a joint collaboration between Tampa Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration,” said DEA Tampa District Office Assistant Special Agent in Charge Todd Cavaliere. “The goal was to clean up Tampa streets and be free from drug distribution and violence that inevitably accompanies drug markets. Tampa citizens can be assured law enforcement will work together to make their communities safe. DEA is committed to stopping the importation and distribution of narcotics in the United States and continue to push for a Fentanyl Free America.”
This local, state, and federal collaboration builds on the framework that made “Operation Overdrive” a success in 2022. By coordinating resources, our agency continues to reduce crime cycles and improve public safety through focused enforcement.
This remains an active investigation, and the department expects additional arrests as the partnership continues to monitor criminal activity.