TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — New questions are emerging surrounding the firing of a longtime Tampa police leader after newly obtained records appear to conflict with the department’s explanation for her termination.
Assistant Chief Ruth Cate, a nearly 30-year veteran of the Tampa Police Department, was terminated last month. The department has said the decision was based on her failing to meet expectations for her role, but has not specified what expectations were not met.
Cate was promoted to assistant chief by Police Chief Lee Bercaw in February 2025. On March 20, 2026, Bercaw and an employee relations manager met with Cate and informed her she would be terminated as an at-will employee.
Records obtained through a public records request show Cate’s personnel file paints a different picture of her performance.
What appears to be her most recent evaluation, covering July 2024 through 2025, rates her performance as “outstanding.” In that evaluation, Bercaw wrote that Cate “is excelling in her role” and “continues to contribute meaningfully to the effectiveness and reputation of the Tampa Police Department.”
The contrast between that evaluation and the reason given for her termination raises questions about what changed.
When asked how those evaluations factored into the decision and what expectations were not met, Bercaw said, in a statement, “The community rightly expects accountability, and as Chief, I hold our organization to those same standards. While this was a difficult decision, our leadership team will continue providing steady direction, maintaining continuity, and ensuring professional, accountable service to our community.”
Cate has previously said there is more to the story but cannot comment further due to pending litigation.
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.