Acting Chief Brett Owen is an experienced law enforcement professional with a distinguished career spanning almost three decades. Born in Ohio and raised in Haines City, Florida, Acting Chief Owen graduated from Auburndale High School. His academic pursuits led him to earn an Associate of Science in Criminal Justice from Polk Community College, a Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration from Barry University and a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice from Saint Leo University.
Acting Chief Owen’s commitment to professional development is evident through his extensive participation in specialized training programs. He has successfully completed the FBI LEEDA Trilogy (Supervisor, Command, and Executive Leadership), the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) Senior Management Institute for Police (Session #82), the Command Officer Management Program at Saint Leo University (Class #31) and is currently enrolled in the Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute’s Chief Executive Seminar (Class #57).
Prior to joining the Tampa Police Department on October 14, 2002, Acting Chief Owen served as a Deputy Sheriff with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office beginning in 1998. He financed his own police academy education while working full-time.
Acting Chief Owen’s dedication to public service is deeply rooted in his family history. His grandfather, Edward Owen, retired as a Lieutenant from the Shaker Heights Police Department after a 27-year career.
Originally drawn to forensic science, Acting Chief Owen's path to law enforcement was influenced by a family friend’s suggestion. His career in Tampa has been marked by a steady progression through various roles, including patrol, specialized units, and leadership positions. He has served as a patrol officer, detective, corporal, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, major, deputy chief, and assistant chief of police.
Acting Chief Owen’s career highlights include successfully bringing the Police Athletic League (PAL) program back under the Tampa Police umbrella and mentoring numerous officers and supervisors. His ability to build lasting relationships with the community, coupled with his servant leadership style, has been instrumental in his success.
As a leader, Acting Chief Owen emphasizes integrity, respect, humility, influence, and accountability. His primary goals for the department include developing future leaders, implementing forward-thinking policies, and strengthening community trust. To stay abreast of law enforcement trends, Acting Chief Owen actively engages with professional organizations and conducts thorough research.
Outside of work, Acting Chief Owen enjoys woodworking, repurposing furniture, hunting, and automotive restoration.
Acting Chief Owen’s combination of education, experience, and leadership qualities make him an asset to the Tampa Police Department and all those who work, reside in, and visit the City of Tampa.