Miami Lakes Public Safety Committee and Town officials recognized the exceptional service of local police officers, firefighters and public safety officials on May 21 at the Public Safety Appreciation Day held at Mary Collins Community Center.
Mayor Michael Pizzi, Vice Mayor Tim Daubert and Councilmembers Ceasar Mestre and Nelson Rodriguez joined police and fire personnel and their families for a breakfast sponsored by The Graham Companies and presented by local restaurant Casavana.
Miami-Dade County Fire Chief Dave Downey presented the Firefighter of the Year Award to Lieutenant Alex Acosta for his dedication, going above and beyond the normal call of duty. While driving home on the morning of September 16, 2015, after his shift at Air Rescue had ended, Acosta saw a vehicle accident on the side of the road. Without hesitation, he proceed to provide treatment until medical units arrived.
Acosta had previously been awarded the Lifesaving and Thomas Quinn Exceptional Service Award by the County.
Miami Lakes Police Major George Perez presented Officer Anthony Baez with the Officer of the Year Award for his commitment to the community, quality service and bravery.
On September 1, 2015, Miami Lakes officers were dispatched to a contact shooting involving employees who worked out of Business Park West, and the suspect had fled the area. Baez responded and began pursuit. The suspect observed Baez’s marked vehicle behind him, but refused to stop. Shortly thereafter, the suspect abandoned his vehicle and fled on foot and was subsequently apprehended by Baez. His quick response removed a violent criminal from the streets of Miami Lakes.
While this annual event takes place in conjunction with National Public Safety Appreciation Week, the Town’s Public Safety Committee stressed it is the outstanding dedication and initiative of these brave men and women year round which has helped to make Miami Lakes one of the safest communities in the state year after year.