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The next assistant chief of police, who started with the Tampa department in 1980 and has served in many divisions, is its highest ranking woman ever.
By TAMARA LUSH, Times Staff Writer
© St. Petersburg Times, published October 29, 2002
TAMPA -- Gilbertina Wright was promoted to the job of assistant chief of police on Monday, making her the highest-ranking woman in the history of the Tampa department.
Effective Nov. 10, Wright will be Chief Bennie Holder's second-in-command.
"I never thought I would reach this level," said Wright. "It really feels good that Chief Holder and Mayor (Dick) Greco have faith in me."
Holder announced a spate of promotions Monday. The moves were prompted by last month's retirement of Assistant Chief Walter "Buz" Sawyer, who was with the department 31 years.
Wright, 45, is also one of the highest-ranking African-American female officers in the state. Her promotion means that the 980-officer department is one of a handful in the nation whose top two commanders are African-American.
She started with the department in 1980 and was quickly promoted. She has worked in the training, personnel, community affairs and patrol divisions. Her most recent position was deputy chief. "I've been all over," she said.
Wright is active in the National Association of Black Law Enforcement Executives and was instrumental in organizing the group's annual meeting in Tampa this past summer.
"We're proud of her," said Joseph Akers, the director of special projects of the Washington, D.C.-based NOBLE.
Wright's rise to the top wasn't easy. She was diagnosed with breast cancer, but she successfully completed treatment with the help of her faith, family and friends, she said.
She has been cancer-free for three years. Her experience with the disease made her look at life -- and law enforcement -- differently. "You appreciate life a lot more," Wright said.
She is married to Bob Wright, a sergeant, and they have a 17-year-old daughter.
"I want to continue what I'm doing now," Gilbertina Wright said. "I want to be Chief Holder's right hand to work with him and make sure we implement some of the best practices and policies from this community."
Also on Monday, Holder promoted Maj. Scott Cunningham to deputy chief. Michael George was promoted to major, and Paul Driscoll was named captain.