David Gee, Hillsborough County Sheriff, Announces Retirement

TAMPA, FL — There’s about to be a new sheriff in town. After nearly 13 years in the post, Hillsborough County Sheriff David Gee’s plans to retire later this year surfaced on Friday.

Gee sent an email to sheriff's office employees about the decision on Friday. It was sent to media a short while after Florida Attorney Pam Bondi sent out a statement congratulating Gee on the opening of a new chapter in his life.

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“After over 40 years of law enforcement service, I have decided to retire at the end of September,” Gee's email to staff member said. “This decision has not been made lightly and was one of the most difficult decisions that I have made in my career.”

Gee also sent an official letter to Gov. Rick Scott announcing the decision.

“It has been a privilege to work with you and I appreciate the support you have given me as well as the support you have provided to law enforcement,” Gee wrote in the letter to Scott.

Gee’s retirement will be effective on Sept. 30, which leaves a few years left on his term. He was re-elected for another four years in 2016 after running unopposed. Whether Scott will appoint a replacement or a special election will be held remains unclear.

“For nearly four decades, Sheriff David Gee has served the citizens of Hillsborough County with humility, integrity and selflessness—sacrificing so much to protect the community we love,” Bondi said in her statement about Gee’s retirement. “His dedication has earned him the reputation of being one of the hardest working, trustworthy and respected leaders in Florida.”

Gee is a lifelong resident of Hillsborough County. He was first elected sheriff in 2004, but had worked for the agency in numerous capacities prior to that. He’s held such posts as homicide investigator, internal affairs supervisor, public information officer and chief deputy.

Gee and his wife, Rhonda, have four children.

It is his plan to “concentrate and devote my full attention and support to my family,” Gee said in his statement to the sheriff’s office. “I wish each of you well and ask that you continue to provide the level of commitment necessary in making this transition as smooth as possible.”

Photo courtesy of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page