Local leaders, law enforcement agencies pay tribute to Bernie McCabe

Bernie McCabe, the longtime Pinellas-Pasco State Attorney known for his fair and balanced approach to the justice system, passed away Jan. 1 at age 73, and his death prompted an outpouring of sympathy and shared memories across social media. 

Several Pinellas County law enforcement agencies paid tribute to McCabe, who played an instrumental role in the prosecution of the men charged with killing police officers including David Crawford of the St. Petersburg Police Department and Jeff Tackett of the Belleair Police Department.

The Belleair Police Department sends condolences on the passing of Pinellas/Pasco State Attorney Bernie McCabe. Mr. McCabe was a supporter of Justice for thirty years. He was instrumental in the prosecution of BPD Ofc. Jeff Tackett’s killer. Thank you, Sir. pic.twitter.com/EmlahfZo2t

— Town Of Belleair (@TownofBelleair) January 2, 2021

State Attorney Bernie McCabe successfully prosecuted many criminals in St. Petersburg, notably serial killer Oba Chandler and Fallen Officer David Crawford’s murderer. #stpetepd is saddened to learn of Bernie’s death and are sending heartfelt condolences to his loved ones. pic.twitter.com/vEQ7drsJ2Q

— St. Pete Police (@StPetePD) January 2, 2021

Bernie McCabe was an outstanding State Attorney who accomplished so much during his distinguished career. He dedicated his life to public safety. Our thoughts and prayers are with Bernie’s wife Denise and the entire McCabe family. -Sheriff Bob Gualtieri

— Pinellas SO (@SheriffPinellas) January 2, 2021

A native Floridian, McCabe graduated with a Juris Doctor, Cum Laude from Stetson University College of Law in 1972. He began his career as an assistant state attorney for the Sixth Judicial Circuit that same year, rising through the ranks as division director, Executive Assistant State Attorney and Chief Assistant State Attorney before being elected State Attorney in 1992.

Local leaders from across the political spectrum praised his work ethic and commitment to the pursuit of truth and justice and sent condolences to McCabe’s wife of 50 years, Denise, and their two children. While an official cause of death hasn’t been announced, those close to him said he had been in poor health for awhile.

My statement on the passing of my mentor and friend State Attorney Bernie McCabe. pic.twitter.com/w1giPE2phf

— Chris Sprowls (@ChrisSprowls) January 2, 2021

Heartbroken about the news of my friend Bernie McCabe. He was a legend in our community and a force for good vs evil. I will miss him greatly.

— Chris Latvala (@ChrisLatvala) January 2, 2021

I am very sad to learn of the passing of Bernie McCabe, a great leader and lawyer in our community, who dedicated his career to public service and the pursuit of justice.

Bernie McCabe, Pinellas-Pasco’s top prosecutor, dies at age 73 https://t.co/5opeaH8xXr

— Ben Diamond (@BenDiamondFL) January 3, 2021

Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our State Attorney Bernie McCabe. He was a straight talking, justice seeking man that served our community with honor and distinction. Prayers to his wife, family, and friends.

— Ed Montanari (@EdMontanari) January 2, 2021

The only time McCabe faced an opponent for election was his first one in 1992 – afterwards, he ran unopposed. In April, he was automatically elected to another four-year term that was slated to begin Tuesday (Jan. 5). For now, Pinellas-Pasco Chief Judge Anthony Rondolino has appointed Chief Assistant State Attorney Bruce Bartlett to the State Attorney position. Governor Ron DeSantis will appoint an interim state attorney and voters will choose a new person for the role in 2022.