A Black Tampa police officer who works as a resource officer at the school was fired after bodycam footage revealed him using the N-word and he later admitted to having previously done so.
According to NBC News, Tampa police officer Delvin White was fired “for violating guidelines that prohibit discriminatory behavior,” according to the Tampa Police Department. White, who served in the police force for eight years, most recently worked as a school clerk at Middleton High School.
The Tampa Bay Police Department issued a statement regarding the incident:
On November 13, 2020, White was on the phone when his body-worn camera pinned him and referred to a group of people as “Ghetto N ******”. During the investigation, White told his manager that there was another incident on November 30, 2020 in which he used the word “N” in an arrest. The body-worn camera recorded White twice in derogatory language while she was arrested for trespassing.
“Disparaging statements from police officers undermine the trust our department builds in our community,” said Chief Brian Dugan. “Tampa law enforcement officials are of a higher standard, and incidents like this negatively impact the entire law enforcement profession.”
The Tampa Police Benevolent Association – Tampa PBA posted a statement on their Facebook page:
“We stand with the City of Tampa and the Tampa Police Department to eradicate all forms of racism and condemn any derogatory statements in or outside of uniform.
“The facts in the Delvin White matter do not reflect any act or intention that justifies the punishment he received for his alleged transgression. Officer White is a loved and trusted member of the East Tampa community he grew up in and protects every day. Despite his misstep, individuals and others connected with his school contacted the police chief throughout the investigation, who supported them and expressed their admiration for his character and contributions. The PBA will file a formal complaint on behalf of Officer White with the hope and expectation to get this esteemed officer back to work. “
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