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Miami-Dade County stands at a pivotal moment in its history, preparing to elect its first new Sheriff in 60 years. This decision is not one to be taken lightly, as it will shape the future of law enforcement and public safety in our community, making it crucial that we elect a candidate with a proven track record of leadership, integrity, and a deep understanding of the complexities of modern policing.
In this critical juncture, experience must be at the forefront of our considerations. As a matter of fact, experience is essential in ensuring that a Sheriff is prepared to meet these challenges. My journey to this point, rooted in a deep love for public service and community, showcases a career rich in diverse experiences that breed trust and uniquely qualifies me for this important role.
My commitment to public service began early, with my enlistment in the United States Army Reserve, where I served for eight years. This foundation instilled in me values of duty, honor, and dedication that have guided my path ever since. After graduating from the police academy in 1987, I joined the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), where I have served for over thirty years.
Throughout my tenure at FHP, I held various specialty positions, including Instructor, Field Training Officer, SWAT, and Public Affairs Officer. I have been deeply involved in some of FHP’s major emergency responses in our community, always helping the law enforcement community handle high-pressure situations with calm and efficiency.
One of my most impactful assignments came in the early 1990s when I was assigned to the Tourist Robbery Task Force. This task force, collaborating with local and regional law enforcement agencies, targeted violent criminals preying on visitors in Miami-Dade. The Task Force’s efforts contributed significantly to reducing crimes against tourists, enhancing the county’s reputation as a safe destination.
In 1996, I was honored to be recognized with a Medal of Valor by the Miami-Dade County Commission for my role in the Value Jet Search and Recovery Team. I was part of the team searching for victims of the Everglades plane crash, serving and protecting our community, even in the most challenging circumstances.
But experience for our new Sheriff can’t just be about the number of years spent in law enforcement. It must also account for the breadth and depth of that experience. A candidate who has worked in various capacities within law enforcement, such as patrol and investigations, will certainly have a comprehensive understanding of the issues facing the department, but what about interacting with the community on a regular basis? How about engaging with elected officials at the municipal, county and state level for additional support for law enforcement priorities? What about legislative experience? What about being responsible for – and understanding – the largest law enforcement budget among Florida’s 67 counties?
In addition to law enforcement experience, candidates for Miami-Dade Sheriff should also possess leadership skills honed through years of legislative experience, managing and supervising budgets and personnel. They should be able to inspire and motivate their team, foster a culture of professionalism and excellence, build coalitions across the community, and make tough decisions when necessary.
As Senior Vice President of the Florida Highway Patrol Chapter of the Police Benevolent Association I negotiated benefits and contracts on behalf of our members. As a City Commissioner, I represented the residents on the same type of negotiations and had to make important decisions that impacted our neighbors, like approving budgets and hiring senior staff. I know what it means to serve as an elected official accountable to you, the residents of Miami-Dade, because unlike other candidates, I have been elected: first, to represent my law enforcement peers, and second, as city commissioner to represent the residents of my district.
This are only a few example of how my experiences underscore my ability to navigate complex issues and find common sense solutions that benefit both law enforcement officers and the community they serve.
As Miami-Dade County looks to the future, I hope my commitment to our community and experience will help make me your choice to serve as the first elected Miami-Dade Sheriff in over six decades. Let us choose wisely and elect a Sheriff who is not only qualified but also committed to serving and protecting all members of our community.
