Tampa Police Department launches “Connected Officer” program with Verizon Frontline

Rhea-AI Summary

Verizon (NYSE:VZ) has announced the deployment of over 950 5G Ultra Wideband-enabled smartphones to the Tampa Police Department as part of their "Connected Officer" program. This initiative ensures every patrol officer has access to a secure, city-issued smartphone loaded with law enforcement applications.

The program aims to enhance efficiency and information security by eliminating the need for officers to use personal devices for official business. This deployment follows significant network upgrades across Florida, including hardened fiber backhaul, generator investments, and the establishment of three Emergency Operation Centers. Additionally, Verizon has launched a Community Disaster Resilience Initiative in Tampa, partnering with United Way and Habitat for Humanity.

Positive

• Deployment of 950+ 5G Ultra Wideband smartphones to Tampa PD
• Major network infrastructure upgrades across Florida
• Launch of Community Disaster Resilience Initiative in Tampa

Negative

• None.

News Market Reaction

-0.18%

1 alert

-0.18% News Effect

On the day this news was published, VZ declined 0.18%, reflecting a mild negative market reaction.

Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.

Program designed to put a secure, 5G smartphone in every officer’s hand

TAMPA, Fla., Sept. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Verizon Frontline today announced the deployment and activation of more than 950 5G Ultra Wideband (UW)-enabled smartphones as part of a mission-critical communications upgrade for the Tampa Police Department (PD).

The new devices support the department’s “Connected Officer” initiative, which was developed to help ensure every officer on patrol is equipped with a smartphone loaded with law enforcement applications. Providing each law enforcement officer with a city-issued device prevents these officers from having to use their personal devices for official business, helping enhance efficiency and information security.

“Our work with the Tampa Police Department represents our long-standing commitment to ensuring our nation’s first responders have the advanced network and solutions they need as they work tirelessly to protect and serve our communities,” said Jessica Roth, Senior Director, Verizon Public Sector.

“Equipping our officers with the latest technology is vital to our mission of keeping our communities safe,” said Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw. “When responding to calls, every second counts. Having immediate access to critical information helps our officers act quickly and ensures we can protect the residents we serve.”

Verizon Frontline’s partnership with Tampa PD comes on the heels of major network upgrades across Florida, including the hardening of fiber backhaul to withstand extreme weather conditions, significant investment in generators, HVAC and battery replacements to ensure the network remains in service when customers need it most, and the addition of three dedicated Emergency Operation Centers across the state of Florida to support network restoration.

In addition, Verizon recently launched its new Community Disaster Resilience Initiative in Tampa. The initiative aims to help communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters with confidence, partnering with local United Way and Habitat for Humanity affiliates. Efforts include educational workshops, immediate response support for basic needs, and home rebuilding after a crisis.

Verizon Frontline is the advanced network and technology built for first responders on the front lines. Developed over three decades of partnership with public safety officials to meet their unique and evolving needs, Verizon Frontline is backed by an award-winning network. For more information, visit our website.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) powers and empowers how its millions of customers live, work and play, delivering on their demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity and security. Headquartered in New York City, serving countries worldwide and nearly all of the Fortune 500, Verizon generated revenues of $134.8 billion in 2024. Verizon’s world-class team never stops innovating to meet customers where they are today and equip them for the needs of tomorrow. For more, visit verizon.com or find a retail location at verizon.com/stores.

VERIZON’S ONLINE MEDIA CENTER: News releases, stories, media contacts and other resources are available at verizon.com/news. News releases are also available through an RSS feed. To subscribe, visit www.verizon.com/about/rss-feeds/.

Media contact:
Chandler Baker
chandler.baker@verizon.com
757 725 4806

FAQ

What is Verizon's Connected Officer program with Tampa Police Department?

The Connected Officer program provides over 950 5G Ultra Wideband-enabled smartphones to Tampa PD officers, ensuring each patrol officer has a secure, city-issued device loaded with law enforcement applications.

How will Verizon's 5G smartphones benefit Tampa police officers?

The smartphones will enhance efficiency and information security by providing immediate access to critical information and eliminating the need for officers to use personal devices for official business.

What network improvements has Verizon made in Florida?

Verizon has implemented hardened fiber backhaul, invested in generators, replaced HVAC and batteries, and added three Emergency Operation Centers across Florida to ensure network reliability.

What is Verizon's Community Disaster Resilience Initiative in Tampa?

The initiative partners with United Way and Habitat for Humanity to help communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters through educational workshops, immediate response support, and home rebuilding efforts.

How much revenue did Verizon generate in 2024?

Verizon generated revenues of $134.8 billion in 2024.