MIAMI BEACH POLICE DEPARTMENT
A MESSAGE FROM POLICE CHIEF WAYNE A. JONES
THE CHIEF'S CORNER
As July begins, I want to take a moment to reflect on the values that define our department. Summer in Miami Beach brings energy, large crowds, and fast-paced demands—but through it all, you continue to show up with professionalism, grit, and compassion.
What sets this department apart is how we carry out our commitment to service. Whether responding to emergencies, managing major events, or offering help in small, quiet moments, your actions build the trust and respect that our community depends on. Every role, every call, every effort matters and together, we make a powerful impact.
As we celebrate Independence Day, we ’ re reminded of the freedoms we are sworn to protect and the responsibility that comes with this badge. It’s not just about maintaining safety it’s about honoring the principles of justice, respect, and equality that guide our work.
I encourage you to stay grounded, support one another, and take moments to recharge when possible. True leadership shows in how we show up—for the public and for each other. Thank you for your continued service, dedication, and heart.
Rapid Intervention Team Gears Up for World Cup 2026
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, the Miami Beach Police Department’s Rapid Intervention Team (RIT)is stepping up to ensure our city is ready to welcome the world safely and confidently.Earlier this month, the RIT participated in a multi-agency Mobile Field Force training exercise at Chase Stadium This collaborative effort brought together law enforcement from across the region to sharpen emergency response tactics, strengthen communication, and practice coordinated crowd management strategies ahead of one of the world’s largest sporting events.
The RIT is trained to respond swiftly and effectively during high-pressure situations whether it's large-scale public events, civil disturbances, or critical incidents. Their role requires precision, discipline, and the ability to remain calm under pressure, all while protecting both public safety and individual rights
This training was more than a drill it was a valuable opportunity to build regional partnerships and practice unified responses in a real-world environment. By working closely with other agencies, our officers are better prepared to handle the unique challenges that come with large international gatherings.
As the city of Miami Beach continues preparing to host World Cup events, the Rapid Intervention Team stands ready to ensure our community remains safe, secure, and welcoming for all Their dedication and preparation reflect MBPD’s commitment to excellence—not just during the event, but every day before and after.
COMMUNITY MATTERS
Summer Interns Leave Their Mark
We’re proud to recognize our outstanding summer interns: Luis Alvarado, Hannah Burton, Veronika Khvan, and Mila Kisic. Their enthusiasm, professionalism, and dedication have made a meaningful impact across our departments. From supporting special projects to enhancing communications and providing behindthe-scenes support, each intern has brought fresh ideas and valuable contributions to our team.
Luis has strengthened our social media and communications efforts in the Public Information Office. Veronika has assisted with important legislative matters, Mila has contributed to high-level special projects, and Hannah has helped streamline operations in Finance. We’re truly grateful for their hard work and commitment to public service and we wish them continued success in all their future endeavors.
COMMUNITY REVIEWS
“Good Morning,
My name is Damian, and I’m a clinician with the Mobile Response Team for WestCare. On Saturday, May 24, 2025, we responded to a crisis call on Hibiscus and required the support of law enforcement due to the client being non-compliant, under the influence, and uncooperative.
Officer Rodriguez and two other officers responded and did an exceptional job in encouraging the client to cooperate. They spent over 30 minutes in the hot sun trying to help her stand and walk to the vehicle after I initiated the Baker Act. Despite the client’s verbal aggression, the officers remained calm and handled the situation with professionalism, moving her safely and swiftly.
This was a true team effort and deserves recognition. Their mental healthfocused approach ensured the client was transported safely to the hospital, and I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge and thank them for their outstanding work.”
Thank you,
Damian Gutierrez, LMHC
Clinician, West Care Mobile Response Team
Florida Law Enforcement Traffic Safety Challenge Awards
MBPD is proud to have earned 3rd place in the Champion’s Category at this year ’ s Florida Law Enforcement Traffic Safety Challenge Awards a distinction only available to agencies that placed first the previous year. This recognition reflects our department’s continued commitment to increasing enforcement and reducing traffic crashes throughout the city. Thank you to all our officers for your tireless efforts in keeping our roads safe.
Hyok Chong July 28, 1997
Juan Pedroso July 12, 1999
Eric Garcia July 24, 2000
Igor Lopez July 7, 2003
Osvaldo Mitat July 30, 2007
Tony Gil July 30, 2007
Laurence Villa July 21, 2008
Lisa Lobello July 21, 2008
Paul Guasto July 21, 2008
Rafael Fujita July 21, 2008
Rosa Carvajal July 21, 2008
Thomas Fleischhauer July 21, 2008
Andy Descalzo July 16, 2013
Javier Palacios July 16, 2013
Anthony Yarusso July 24, 2017
Elizabeth Fequiere July 24, 2017
Sebastian Silvera July 31, 2017
Sujey Espinoza July 10, 2017
Shelly-Ann Forsythe July 9, 2018
Crystal Castro July 8, 2019
Priscilla Olivera July 1, 2019
Allan Blandon July 13, 2020
Juan Zapata July 13, 2020
Matthew Meszaros July 13, 2020
Andrea Montenegro July 6, 2021
Jorge Rosado Jr July 6, 2021
Omar Perez July 6, 2021
Toan Thai July 6, 2021
Andrea Naranjo July 5, 2022
Efrain Marti July 26, 2022
Alexis Veras July 17, 2023
Aura Hevia-Nunez July 17, 2023
Edelmiro Odio July 17, 2023
Edenis Hechavarria July 17, 2023
Hector Garcia July 17, 2023
Jorge Nunez July 17, 2023
Jose Davila July 30, 2023
Keris Martinez July 17, 2023
Marcos Cardoso July 17, 2023
Spencer Hautrive July 17, 2023
Yasnier Blanco Fernandez July 17, 2023
Amanda Flores July 1, 2024
Carolina Garcia July 15, 2024
Chanel Oliver July 15, 2024
Dashley Iribar July 15, 2024
Justa Cortorreal July 15, 2024
Robert Gonzalez July 26, 2024
Rolando Rodriguez July 26, 2024
Deborah Martineau July 1
Makin Pomares July 2
Suniel Castellanos July 3
Matthew Aiken July 3
Kevin Gomez July 3
Alexander Cuellar July 4
Jessica Pascual July 4
Arianna Nanni July 5
Daniel Han July 6
Staci Wright July 7
Anderson White July 8
Efrain Marti July 9
Cira Gordo July 9
Justin Angulo July 9
Philip Henson July 9
Rabih El-Jourdi July 10
Hansel Romero Sierra July 10
Julio Vargas July 11
Jonathan Reyes July 11
Richard Lonergan July 12
Jossue Dominguez July 13
Ashley Symonds-Mendizabal July 14
Jean Vandesande July 14
Juan Garcia July 14
Omar Perez July 15
Gustavo Blacio July 15
Michael Garcia July 16
Rey Quintero July 18
Marcos Cardoso July 18
Luis Perez July 18
Oscar Lopez July 18
Humberto Rodriguez July 21
Shenaqua Stringer July 21
Michael Muley July 21
Elizabeth Joan July 23
Eduardo Garrido Viera July 23
Veronica Prieto July 24
Ernesto Rodriguez July 24
Jair Armatrading July 24
Dhaniel Nieves July 24
Crystal Castro July 24
Elizabeth Rodriguez July 25
Miona Mijalkovic July 27
Juan Pedroso July 27
Julia Grando-Moura July 28
Alberto Gonzalez Cabanas July 30
Alejandro Bello July 31
Major Garcia July 28 - August 4
Captain Lozano August 4 - August 11
Captain Rivero August 11 - August 18
Submitted By: Chief Wayne Jones
OFFICIAL DEPARTMENTAL POSTING
TRAINING TRAK URL
The Training Trak database has been moved to a new URL. The database can be found here: http://mbreports/reports/report/Police/archive/WebDbf
Training Trak contains your training record before the implementation of Vector Solutions – approximately 2017-2018. As a reminder, please enter two zero's in front of the Metro ID number for sworn officers, i.e., if your Metro ID number is 848, you would enter 00848; if your Metro ID number is 045, you would enter 00045. Civilian employees please use your Payroll ID number.
Please reach out to the Training Unit if you have any questions or issues.
Submitted By: Officer Nicholas L. Guasto
OFFICIAL DEPARTMENTAL POSTING
Accident Investigation Unit Certification
If any officer is interested in becoming certified with the Accident Investigation Unit, please email Sgt. David Price. The At-Scene Traffic Crash course is an 80-hour training that places strong emphasis on mathematical equations. Upon completion, officers will be qualified to handle city vehicle crashes as well as crashes involving moderate injuries.
Submitted By: Sergeant David Price
OFFICIAL DEPARTMENTAL POSTING
DocuSign Overtime Slip Copies
If you are submitting your overtime slips to your supervisors via DocuSign for approval, please send Ana Delmonte a copy as the last recipient (once everyone has signed).
Submitted By: Ana Delmonte
OFFICIAL DEPARTMENTAL POSTING
CLARIFICATION ON HOMELESS PROCEDURES
Toeliminateconfusionormisconceptionsregardingtheproperhandlingofhomeless-relatedincidents,pleasereviewthe followingQ&A:
IsaddressingissuesinvolvingthehomelesssolelytheresponsibilityoftheHomelessResourceOfficers?
NoTheHRUconsistsofone(1)sergeantandfour(4)dedicatedHomelessResourceOfficersservingtheentirecityTheir timeisheavilycommittedtorespondingtocalls,makingarrests,attendingcourt,andconnectingindividualswith services allwhilebalancingscheduledtimeoffItisnotfeasibleforthissmallteamtohandleeveryhomeless-related situationcitywide
DoeseveryhomelesspersoncallrequireanHRO?
NoThisappearstobeacommonlyheldmisconception,asevidencedbyoccasionswhereofficersdispatchedtoa homeless-relatedcallinquireabouttheavailabilityofanHROimmediatelyuponreceivingit
Attheveryleast,thedispatchedofficerwillrespondtothecall,arriveonscene,andassessthesituation,beforenotifying theirsergeantthatanHROmaybeneeded
Additionally,thedispatchedofficershouldobtainpertinentinformationfromthehomelessperson,suchas: NameandDOB, Homelessstatus(Justbecausesomeoneappearstobehomelessdoesn’tnecessarilymeantheyare), Thecircumstancesastowhytheyarehomelessandiftheyhavereceivedanyhomelessservicesfromanywhere Iftheyareseekingservices,whattypeofservicesaretheylookingfor?
PerformaRecordsCheckandassesstheirlevelofimpairment/intoxication(theshelterwillnotacceptintoxicated persons,northosewithaviolentorsexualoffenderpast).
Bepreparedtorelaysaidinformationtoyoursergeantand/ortheHRUSergeant
IsthereaspecialdetailassignedtoenforcetheCampingOrdinance?
Yes,butwhetheryou’reworkingaspecificdetailornot,allMiamiBeachPoliceOfficerscanandshouldenforcethis ordinanceatanytimeofdayornight,solongastherequiredcriteriaismet Foryourconvenience,acopyofthe ordinanceisattachedtothismessage.
Whatservicesareavailabletotheunhoused?
Sevendaysaweek(exceptforholidaysoraspecialtrainingday):
From0700to1800:CMB(771-17 Street)personnelareavailableth
From2000to0300:NewHopeisavailabletoassistwithtransportsSometimestheyhavetheirownshelterbeds,but thosebedsareprimarilyforthepeopletheyencounterduringtheirmissionsThepolicedepartmenttypicallyhasfour bedsavailableeverynight.Twofemaleandtwomalebeds.
Ifafamilyisencounteredduringtheafterhourstimes,contactasergeanttonotifySergeantBerrianThephonenumber fortheHomelessOutreachOfficeis305604-4663.Ifyoucallthatnumberafterhours,youwillheartwoprompts: Shelterplacement,whichwillconnectyoudirectlytoNewHope. Police,whichwillconnectyoudirectlytoPSCU.
Ifyou,oranyofyourofficers,arenotcertainastotheprocedures,theycanbefoundinPowerDMSorTargetSolutions
Ifyouhaveanyquestions,pleasedonothesitatetoreachout.
Submitted By:
Lieutenant Paul Ozaeta
MIAMI BEACH EMERGENCY DISPATCHERS NOW USING WHAT3WORDS TO LOCATE 911 CALLERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 21, 2025
Miami Beach Emergency Dispatchers Now Using What3Words to Locate 911 Callers
The free tool helps emergency responders locate callers who are unsure of their address
Miami Beach, FL – Three simple words may one day save a life in Miami Beach as the city’s 911 emergency dispatchers are the first in South Florida to begin using a free app to locate 911 callers who are unsure of their exact location.
“Every second counts in an emergency. What3Words helps our first responders find people faster,” said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “Now our dispatchers can pinpoint locations with incredible precision even in parks or beaches where street addresses aren’t clear. This will help us save lives ”
Using the app, dispatchers can text or email a link to 911 callers with access to a smartphone, tablet or computer. The app converts the geographic coordinates of callers into three English words separated by periods. For example surfaces.hotels.upon corresponds to 1701 Meridian Ave
Callers will be asked to read the words aloud in the same order provided by the app. The words are converted by the app into a precise geographic square measuring 3 by 3 meters. Developers say the app offers GPS-level accuracy even in hard-to-access or unmarked areas.
“What3Words gives us an added advantage in finding people quicker, especially in areas without street addresses or when a caller is disoriented,” said Miami Beach Fire Chief Digna Abello, who oversees the city’s emergency dispatch operations for police, fire and medical calls. “In emergency situations, every second matters and this tool helps us eliminate the guesswork.”
While it is not necessary for 911 callers to be running the app on their devices, What3Words is available for free download on both iOS and Android platforms For more information on What3Words, visit www.what3words.com.
Submitted By:
Major Eric Garcia
Crisis Response System Resources
The Crisis Response System brochure highlights valuable resources that may assist individuals we encounter daily in our community. Recent success stories reflect the dedication of officers who have gone above and beyond to ensure individuals in crisis receive appropriate care and support. Their efforts are both commendable and appreciated. For questions or assistance, please contact Lt. Lemus or Sgt. Berrian.
Submitted By: Lieutenant Jorge Lemus
OFFICIAL DEPARTMENTAL POSTING
Take a moment to read “Nowhere to Hide” by Editor Paul Scicchitano, featured in the summer issue of MB Magazine. The article highlights the exceptional efforts of our officers and civilian team members behind the Real Time Intelligence Center and the Skidoo Drone as a First Responder Program a testament to Miami Beach’s leadership and innovation in modern policing.
OFFICIAL DEPARTMENTAL POSTING
The Training Unit, in collaboration with the Information Technology Department, is excited to announce the deployment of a new SharePoint application designed specifically for submitting training course applications for external training courses This new tool, based on the current "Change of Status" application, aims to streamline the application process, making it more efficient and user-friendly for all.
Key Features of the New Application:
Easy Submission: Officers will now submit their training course applications directly through the SharePoint platform.
Tracking and Updates: Track the status of your application in real-time and receive notification of updates.
User-Friendly Interface: The application is designed with a simple and intuitive interface to ensure a smooth user experience, using Microsoft Forms.
Centralized Information: All training course application statuses are centralized in one location for easy access and monitoring of approval status.
How to Access the New Application:
1 Log in to SharePoint: Use your department credentials to log in to the SharePoint portal
2 Navigate to the "PD Apps" Section: Click on the "Training Course Application" button at the bottom of the page
3 Submit Your Application: Fill out the form and submit for approval through your chain of command
4 Track the Progress: Clicking the "Training Course Application" link on the left pane of the PD Apps will allow you to check the status of your
The process for submitting training course applications has not changed, simply the "vehicle" for submission. Please keep in mind that training course applications with $0 cost will be approved to the employee's Division Major, and to the Chief or designee if there is a monetary cost
The Training Unit will no longer accept FRM 002- Training Course Application forms, effective Monday, June 30. All training course applications will be submitted via the new application in SharePoint We believe this new application will greatly enhance the efficiency our training application process and provide a more seamless experience for everyone involved. Special thanks to the IT Department, specifically Steven Pedroso and AJ Alacan for their hard work in conceptualizing and developing this application
Attached to this e-mail is the User Guide for the Training Course Application, and a tutorial training video will be sent out via TargetSolutions Please watch the video in its entirety, as supervisors will need to be trained on the approval process, as well as the submission process If you have any questions or need assistance with the new application, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.
Submitted
By: Officer Nicholas L. Guasto
SCAN THE QR CODE TO BECOME A MENTOR!
The Miami Beach Police Department is seeking mentors, both sworn officers and professional staff, to participate in the Bigs in Blue – School-to-Work program. This initiative provides an incredible opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of local students.
As part of the program, students will visit the police department once a month for a couple of hours to spend meaningful time with their mentors.
If you're interested in becoming a mentor, you can complete the online application by scanning the QR code provided. An in-person orientation meeting will be held in the community room on Aug. 7th at 9am. Please send Sgt. Llamoca, Ysidro an email advising your interest.
We encourage everyone to get involved and help shape the future of our youth through mentorship.
Thank you for your support!
NEVER MISS A MOMENT
