Police Explorers placed 2nd, recognized by City Commission

By Raquel Garcia….

The South Miami Commission, Police Chief Orlando Martinez Del Castro, Major Rene Landa, Detective Joe Mendez, and Officer Johnson recognize the six outstanding 2011 South Miami Police Explorers Competitors.

South Miami Police Explorers Day went into the record books at the South Miami City Commission meeting when Mayor Philip Stoddard proclaimed April 19, 2011 as a day to commemorate the latest Explorers Post achievements.

The team recently competed at FIU to bring home an impressive second place overall rating in the three-day event. Students from more than 19 posts in Dade, Broward and Monroe counties competed in varied training categories, including domestic violence, search and arrest, traffic stops, and a bicycle obstacle course. Last year South Miami Police Explorers won First Place in the competition.

Stand-out students recognized for over-all excellence included Juan Villotoro who won “The Lifesaving Award” for recently assisting a neighbor as a potential suicide neighbor as contributing to saving the life of the troubled individual.

Former Program Director Sergeant Michael W.Weissberg said “now that the South Miami Police Explorers have won first and second places overall in back-to-back competitions, they are a force to be reckoned with.”

Det. Mendez and the Explorers spent months preparing for the competition, evidenced by their performance. The 21 members now enter astate competition in Orlando June 19-25. For details, contact Det. Mendez at 305-663-6310.


Connect To Your Customers & Grow Your Business

Click Here