MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF
Police Chief
Leonard Burgess I am pleased to present the Miramar Police Department’s 2021 Annual Report, highlighting our accomplishments, service and vision for 2022. This past year has been a true privilege, serving as Interim Chief of Police of this highly recognized and respected agency. On February 14, 2022, I was appointed as the Chief of Police. I could not be more honored to have the opportunity to lead the men and women of one of the finest police departments, not only in South Florida but in the nation. We take great pride in delivering unparalleled police services to our diverse Miramar community. Ensuring public safety, while maintaining the highest standards of professional ethics and integrity is our pledge to you. Our department has been at the forefront of modern policing, committed to 21st Century Policing strategies and the Eight Can’t Wait initiatives, promoting effective crime reduction while building public trust, reducing Use of Force incidents
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Miramar Police Department | Annual Report 2021
and increasing accountability. In fact, our Internal Affairs Unit documented a significant reduction in Response to Resistance incidents. We are proud to say that the department had zero racially biased complaints in 2021. The past two years have been the most challenging years in the history of the department. The global pandemic affected our agency and the community we serve in an unprecedented manner. Many have been touched by grief, compounded by stress caused by financial trouble or uncertainty. Our department was not spared. We began 2021 with the loss of a dedicated member of our staff due to COVID. Our Miramar PD family united in support and grew stronger in our resolve, delivering excellence with compassion and pride to our residents. In 2021, tangible results were realized as crime was reduced in various areas compared to the previous year. Burglaries decreased 38%, robberies by 22%, vehicle burglaries by
