Gerald Arthur Rauft served in the U.S. Army for 2 years and 11 months. Gerald served in the Vietnam War and the Cold War.
Detective Gerald Rauft was shot and killed during an undercover operation to purchase 100 pounds of marijuana. The undercover officers were conducting the deal inside a home at 1410 E. 29th Avenue when a shootout erupted and Detective Rauft was fatally wounded. The second officer was seriously wounded. Four suspects were apprehended. The 28-year-old triggerman was declared mentally incompetent to stand trial and sent to a mental institution. In 1986 he was deemed competent and was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death. On May 5th, 2012, he was resentenced to life in prison. He died in prison on May 30th, 2020. Detective Rauft had served with the Tampa Police Department for eight years.
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In tribute
I never knew you. I am standing here anyway.
Detective Rauft gave the Tampa Police Department 8 years.
Thank you for your service to the Tampa community. Gone but never to be forgotten.
Rest easy, Detective Rauft.
— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993
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