Tampa police leaders draw praise for peaceful RNC week
As the impromptu march wound through Ybor City, Tampa police Chief Jane Castor brought up the rear in a navy Ford Expedition.
Another day of protests was proceeding peacefully, and Castor sat in the passenger seat, window down, smiling and waving at spectators on the sidewalk.
Less anarchy, more parade.
"I said I needed a box of beads," Castor later recalled. "It was actually a festive atmosphere."
Castor and a team of law enforcement from about 60 agencies across the state have received praise for their patient, measured approach during the Republican National Convention. Many glowing reviews came from protesters themselves.
"If we were in New York, there were plenty of moments we would have all been arrested," Brendon Hunt [sic], 28, of Occupy Wall Street said Thursday. "I really like Tampa. I'd like to come back sometime."