A vibrant new mural honors fallen Corporal Mike Roberts at Tampa Police Department’s District Two Headquarters at 9330 N. 30th St., painted by artist Chico Garcia, who learned of the tragic death of Corporal Roberts on Aug. 19, 2009, when had he had recently moved to Tampa.
Garcia felt compelled to show his support for law enforcement and offered to create the mural. He donated his time and materials to complete the 10-by-25-foot wall painting, which pays tribute to all Tampa Police officers. His artwork features a picture of Corporal Roberts along with other officers surrounding the department’s Memorial Monument.
Chico Garcia is a New York native who has done charitable artwork for numerous organizations including the New York City Police Department, YMCA and Boys & Girls Club. He has also done work for large corporations such as Coca-Cola and small family owned businesses.
Garcia became recognized as an artist after being caught vandalizing public property. He now encourages young graffiti vandals to partner with their communities and to use their talent more constructively.
Corporal Mike Roberts was killed in the line of duty after stopping a suspicious person. The 11-year veteran was assigned to District Two at the time of his death. He left behind a wife and young son.
— Information courtesy of TPD Spokesperson Janelle McGregor
This article appears in Mar 10-16, 2011.