Assistant Chief Ruth Cate has dedicated her career to serving the Tampa Police Department, joining the force in 1996. Her journey through the ranks has been marked by a diverse range of assignments, from patrol officer to her current role as Assistant Chief of Operations.
Throughout her time with the department, Assistant Chief Cate has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a commitment to public safety. Her experience includes serving as a School Resource Officer, QUAD Officer in the Tactical Division, and detective in the Narcotics Bureau, where her investigations led to significant drug seizures. She has also held positions in the Sex Crimes/Child Abuse squad and Internal Affairs Bureau, showcasing her dedication to protecting vulnerable members of the community.
As a sergeant and lieutenant, Assistant Chief Cate played a crucial role in implementing key initiatives, such as the first ICAC task force and a partnership with the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay to provide dedicated victim's advocates. She has also served as a shift commander in Districts One and Two, demonstrating her ability to lead and manage complex operations.
Beyond her operational responsibilities, Assistant Chief Cate has been actively involved in community outreach and support programs. She has served as a Drug Education For Youth (DEFY) mentor, a member of the Critical Incident Stress Management team, and as a “Big Sister” as part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America’s “Bigs in Blue” program. Her dedication to honoring fallen officers is evident through her long-standing involvement with the Tampa Police Memorial Committee, where she currently serves as President and has overseen the distribution of substantial scholarships supporting the continuing education of children of Tampa Police employees.
Assistant Chief Cate's accomplishments are not only reflected in her professional achievements but also in her groundbreaking role as the highest-ranking Asian American Officer to serve the Tampa Police Department. Her educational background, including a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Leadership and a bachelor's degree in criminology, provides a strong foundation for her leadership.
Assistant Chief Cate's distinguished career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to law enforcement, public service, and the Tampa community. Her leadership, experience, and dedication have made a significant impact on the Tampa Police Department’s mission to work in partnership with the community to reduce crime, improve quality of life, and make Tampa safer.