"As a child growing up in St. Petersburg, my mother, family and community taught me to stand for what's right and to advocate for the same. I learned early that many before me, black and white, made significant sacrifices for me, my community and the city — and that it was my duty to give back. I make no apologies for working to support my family and to serve the city I love. I am here by choice, and I haven't regretted any of the causes for which I've fought.

"In 1997, when Mayor David Fischer asked me to lead the Police Department and help heal the city following racial disturbances, I responded and implemented the tenets of respect, accountability and integrity, and served faithfully until my retirement in October 2001. I did so at great personal risk, and my family was subjected to horrific media stories which fortunately ended with an accurate accounting of my record when the St. Petersburg Times reported in 2001 that crime declined; the homicide rate hit a 30-year low; citizen complaints against police officers decreased; and arrests for crimes for which I was criticized (drugs and prostitution) increased.

"Upon winning the mayoral race in 2001, Rick Baker met with me at the Police Department to discuss his law enforcement agenda and I informed him I intended to retire. After repeated unsuccessful attempts to change my mind, he asked me to consider directing his Midtown initiative. I initially declined but eventually answered the call to serve."

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