Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 12/22/09
Clinical Psychologist Pleads Guilty to
Manslaughter in Oxycontin Overdose Death Case
Miami (December 22, 2009) - Miami Clinical Psychologist Adam Feder has pleaded guilty today to Trafficking in Controlled Substances and Manslaughter in the death of a 20 year old woman who had been his patient.
Rachel Finzi died of an apparent overdose on May 24, 2006 in Feder’s apartment in North Miami. Ms. Finzi had originally sought treatment from Feder after a period of severe depression following a traumatic event that had occurred in her life. Feder put aside ethical considerations and took advantage of Rachel Finzi’s emotional situation and began a personal relationship with the young model. The two also began to use illicit drugs.
Adam Feder’s initial arrest came after a lengthy investigation by the State Attorney’s Office into what was originally reported to police as a suicide. The evidence revealed that Ms. Finzi had ingested a substantial amount of the powerful narcotic Oxycodone, which was later determined to have been the cause of Finzi’s death. According to the medical examiner’s report, Finzi had 100 times the maximum therapeutic amount of the drug in her body. Despite Feder’s knowledge and recognition of the effects that the drugs were having on Ms. Finzi, he did not seek any medical assistance for her. As a result, Finzi died of a massive drug overdose.
As a condition of his plea agreement, Feder will serve 6 years in state prison followed by 4 years of probation and he will also have to surrender his license to practice psychology in the State of Florida.
“The irresponsible actions of this medical professional led to the tragic death of the young and vivacious life of Rachel Finzi. At a time when Rachel sought much needed support, Adam Feder sought to offer the opposite by way of unethical and illicit activities. My heart goes out to the Finzi family and all those who knew the wonderful person she was”, commented State Attorney Katherine Fernandez-Rundle.
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 12/18/09
Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle
- Hosts Annual "Angel Tree Party"
Miami (December 18, 2009) - Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle will host her office’s “Angel Tree Party” on Tuesday, December 22, 2009, from 2:30 to 3:30 PM. The annual holiday event is a tradition with the State Attorney’s Office.
In 1988, the Victim Services Unit staff decided that instead of buying gifts for each other, it would be more in the spirit of the holiday season to help others. Needy children, identified as victims or witnesses from the office’s closed cases, were invited to our office for a holiday party. Employees “adopted” these angels and bought gifts for them. The event was so successful, it has since become an annual event with such guests as Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, their reindeer, and of course, the Three Kings.
The children who are chosen to participate in the event are victims or witnesses under the age of 13 whose cases have been closed within the past 2 years. Santa presents the children with gifts and afterwards, staff share snacks and beverages with the children, their families and guests. This year, each family will also receive a turkey and some non-perishable foods to take home for the holidays courtesy of the Miami-Dade County League of Cities.
The Angel Tree Party will be held in the lobby of the ER Graham Building located at 1350 NW 12 Avenue, in Miami. Members of the media are welcome to join us.
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 11/30/09
State Attorney's Office Charges Mayor of
West Miami for Exploiting his Official Position
Miami (November 30, 2009) - A joint investigation conducted by the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office and the Miami-Dade County Commission on Ethics and Public Trust has resulted in criminal charges being filed against Cesar R Carasa, the Mayor of the City of West Miami.
Carasa, who was elected Mayor of West Miami in April of 2006, has been charged with 2 counts of Exploitation of Official Position. Carasa served the city as a commissioner prior to his election to the mayoral post, a position to which he was re-elected without opposition in December of 2008.
Mayor Carasa is accused of using his city-issued cellular telephone to make international long distance calls for personal and business purposes unrelated to city business, and in doing so, he incurred in excess of $70,000 in charges for phone calls and roaming charges inuring to his private benefit.
After the prohibited calls and excessive charges were brought to his attention, Carasa refused to reimburse the city. In fact, Carasa attempted to engage other city officials to intervene on his behalf with the city’s cellular provider, Sprint, in order to have the charges waived. Sprint declined to waive the bills.
“This is a sad day for the City of West Miami”, said Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. “West Miami residents deserve better from someone they elected to do the public’s work, not work the public for private gain.”
Attached hereto is a copy of the Statement of Facts against Mayor Carasa. He is expected to receive a Notice to Appear in court at a later date.
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 11/13/09
Construction Magnate, Two City of Miami Commissioners
Charged in Separate Public Corruption Probes
Miami (November 13, 2009) - On Friday, November 13, 2009, State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle and Acting Miami-Dade Police Department Director James Loftus will hold a joint press conference at the Office of the State Attorney to announce the charging of construction magnate Juan Delgado and his company Delant Construction, City of Miami Commissioner Michelle Spence-Jones and City of Miami Commissioner Angel Gonzalez.
The press conference will be held at 2:00 p.m. in room 418-S. The Office of the State Attorney is in the E. R. Graham building located at 1350 NW 12th Avenue, Miami. Please arrive early enough to obtain security clearance through the building’s security review process.
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 10/26/09
Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle Recogized by the
South Florida Business Journal
Miami (October 26, 2009) - State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle has been recognized in the South Florida Business Journal’s 2009 Book of Law as a “Leading Lawyer”.
The annual publication historically recognizes the region’s top 200 largest law firms. This year for the first time, the Journal has added a special section that recognizes individuals who hold key leadership roles in South Florida.
State Attorney Fernandez Rundle is highlighted as the first and only Hispanic woman on the State Constitutional Revision Council and the longest-serving counsel to the Dade County Grand Jury. The Journal also mentions her 2008 reelection to an unprecedented fifth term as Miami-Dade County’s top prosecutor and her current post on the Board of Directors of the National District Attorney’s Association, the most influential group of prosecutors in the nation.
Upon being notified of her selection, State Attorney Fernandez Rundle commented: “To be recognized as a “Leading Lawyer” by one of the most prestigious publications in South Florida is truly an honor for me.”
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 10/22/09
Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle
to Address Small Business Women's Group
Miami (October 22, 2009) - Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle will be the guest speaker at a luncheon for women on Monday, October 26, 2009, to commemorate Small Business Women’s Month.
The luncheon, sponsored by the Pinecrest Tribune Community Newspaper, will be held at the New Chinatown Restaurant located at 5958 South Dixie Highway, in South Miami. The luncheon begins at 11:30 am.
State Attorney Fernandez Rundle is expected to address the group regarding trends in women-owned small businesses – how women have strongly emerged in the work force and business world.
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Contact: Ed Griffith 305-547-0535 10/02/09
Press Conference Regarding Homicide Indictments of 4 Gang Members
- Charges Solve 3 Year Old Murder Case
Miami (October 2, 2009) - A 3 year long homicide investigation has led to a Grand Jury Indictment of 4 gang members charged in the deaths of rival gang members.
On Friday afternoon, October 2, 2009, State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle, City of Miami Police Chief John Timoney and members of the investigative team that brought this case to a successful conclusion will hold a joint press conference to announce the indictments.
The press conference will be held at 2:30 p.m. in room 418-S. The Office of the State Attorney is in the E. R. Graham building located at 1350 NW 12th Avenue, Miami. Please arrive early enough to obtain security clearance through the building’s security review process
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 9/25/09
State Attorney's Office Charges Veteran Employee of the Department of Children and Families
in Multi-Count Fraud Case
Miami (September 25, 2009) - A 15 year employee of the Department of Children and Families (DCF) has been arrested on charges that she falsified food stamp and Refugee Assistance Program records allowing her to steal thousands of dollars from the program over a 2 year period.
Lysette Hernandez, 50, a Quality Assurance employee for the state agency, is accused of creating numerous fake applications using fictitious names, dates of birth, and social security numbers in order to produce Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards for her own personal use. Hernandez manipulated program records and had the EBT cards sent to an acquaintance’s house. The EBT cards were then used by Hernandez to buy groceries from various supermarkets and to withdraw money from ATM machines. Security cameras recorded Hernandez using the cash and food stamp benefits from the EBT cards at a Publix Supermarket near her residence.
“Ms. Hernandez, whose job is to ensure that refugee program money is properly spent, instead is charged with stealing from the very people she was hired to assist”, said Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. “We can never tolerate fraud and theft by anyone, particularly by trusted public employees upon whom our community depends. Such thefts are ultimate acts of betrayal.”
Hernandez, who resides in West Kendall, was arrested by Miami-Dade Police shortly before noon today and has been transported to the Miami-Dade County Pre-Trial Detention Center for processing. She is charged with 31 counts of Grand Theft, 23 counts of Official Misconduct, and 1 count of Public Assistance Fraud by Official.
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 9/10/09
Florida Missing Children's Day
- Press Conference
Miami (September 10, 2009) - Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle will hold a press conference on Monday, September 14, 2009, commemorating Florida Missing Children’s Day. The press conference is scheduled for 1:30 PM and will take place in the lobby of the Office of the State Attorney located in the E.R. Graham Building at 1350 NW 12 Avenue in Miami.
The State Attorney will recognize this important day alongside several special guests, including some who have had the unfortunate experience of feeling the pain and despair of dealing with the uncertainty of a missing relative. Joining State Attorney Fernandez Rundle at the event is Nancy McBride, the Florida-based Director of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and Patrick Sessions, the father of Tiffany Sessions, who is still missing after 20 years and whose case remains pending.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, close to 800,000 children are reported missing each year. The collaborative efforts of various organizations and law enforcement agencies have led to the recovery of most of those reported missing. However, despite the many successes in finding these children, thousands remain missing nationwide.
“There is no greater sadness for a parent than to know nothing about what has happened to their child. The emotional roller coaster that pulls a person between the deep despair and surges of hope can tear one’s life apart”, affirmed State Attorney Fernandez Rundle. “There are steps we can take to protect our children and we should. I hope that by bringing attention to the cause of missing children, we can help bring a child back home.”
The State Attorney’s Office JIM (Justice in Motion) Bus will be stationed at the event which will also include a child finger printing session wherein the public is encouraged to bring in their child to our office in order to have them fingerprinted as a precautionary tool to combat this escalating problem.
Please arrive early enough to obtain security clearance through the building’s security review process.
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Contact: Ed Griffith 305-547-0535 9/2/09
Defendant in Internet Drowning Fetish Case Pleads Guilty
Miami (September 2, 2009) - During the third day of his criminal trial, defendant Jeffrey Doland pled guilty to charges related to his internet pursuit of children he hoped to” forcibly dunk in a pool or bathtub until the bubbles stop rising” in an effort to obtain sexual gratification. Doland, a school district tech worker from Uniontown, Ohio, had been held in custody in Miami since his arrest on July 25, 2007.
The 47-year-old Doland pled guilty to:
- 2 counts of Attempted Lewd & Lascivious Exhibition
- 2 counts of Attempted Lewd & Lascivious Battery
- 2 counts of Attempted Child Abuse
- 2 counts of Offering to Obtain Control of a Minor to Depict Them While Engaging in a Sexual Act
Doland will serve a 20-year prison sentence to be followed by 10 years probation, was immediately taken back into custody.
“I am very pleased by the hard work of the Chief of my Cyber Crimes Unit, David Sherman who works every day trying to sweep individuals like Jeffrey Doland from our streets before they get a child into their clutches. This is what my Cyber Crimes Unit does very, very well. Sexual predators who troll the Internet looking for child victims should rightfully fear us because we are searching for them,” stated Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. This prosecution shows what the united efforts of local, state and federal law enforcement can accomplish. “Predators should also know that we will find them, convict them and send them to prison.”
State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle wanted to particularly applaud the work of Assistant State Attorney Charles Johnson and the hard work of the agents of the United States Secret Service who doggedly pursued this case to its fullest evidentiary potential in order to secure an irrefutable case. “The United States Secret Service deserves the heart-felt thanks of the people of this community for working to take this predator off of our streets. Likewise, I wish to thank the Sheriff’s Offices of both Summit County, Ohio and Boone County, Ohio for their full cooperation and assistance in bringing this prosecution to its just conclusion”, stated State Attorney Fernandez Rundle.
State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle will be available for comments. Please call for 305-547-0535 for a contact appointment
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 08/27/09
Press Conference Seeking Community Assistance To Solve
Jordan Grove Missionary Baptist Church Robbery and
Murders at NW 15th Avenue & NW 70th Street
Miami (August 27, 2009) - On Friday morning, August 28, 2009, State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle, Miami Police Chief John Timoney, Miami-Dade County Commissioner Audrey Edmonson, Rev. Douglas Cook, and the Rickia Isaac Foundation, among other community leaders and organizations, are participating in a joint press conference seeking community assistance to solve the recent Jordan Grove Missionary Baptist Church robbery and the murders at NW 15th Avenue & NW 70th Street.
Monday night’s robbery, in the middle of a church service, epitomizes the boldness of some criminals. Our community can help insure its own safety by helping to combat such crimes. Initiatives in this direction will be unveiled.
The press conference will be held at 11:00 a.m. inside the Jordan Grove Missionary Baptist Church, located at 5946 NW 12th Avenue, in the City of Miami.
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 08/12/09
State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle Presented
with the "Miami Peace Award"
Miami (August 12, 2009) - As part of the 8th annual Miami Peace Festival, also referred to as the “Miami Peace in Da Hood” festival, State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle received the “Miami Peace Award” during the festivities held this past Saturday, August 8, 2009.
The Miami Peace Festival is an all day event that takes place in Liberty City wherein many local community leaders, law enforcement personnel, and community residents gather together to promote peace in the inner city.
State Attorney Fernandez Rundle was chosen for the award for her role in establishing Peddler’s License Workshops throughout Miami-Dade County. The award recognizes individuals whose support of employment opportunities for inner city residents helps “Stop the Violence”. The Peddler’s License Workshops provide participants with valuable information on obtaining a peddler’s license, incorporating a business, and offers other types of assistance with business related issues.
“The Miami Peace Festival is a wonderful opportunity for the people of our community to come together in a true effort to support the ideals of community brotherhood and unity", commented State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. "With such important goals in mind, I am truly honored to have been selected for the Miami Peace Award. Only when communities come together, as we are doing at this festival, can we hope to overcome the problems of crime and violence which endanger the safety of our law-abiding citizens.”
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 07/31/09
State Attorney's Office Partner's and Community Agencies
- Host Landlord and Tenant Workship
Miami (July 31, 2009) - State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle has partnered with Legal Aid Society, Miami-Dade Court Services Bureau, Miami-Dade County Clerk of Courts, the Miami-Dade Community Action Agency, Division of Consumer Services, Miami-Dade Public Housing Agency, Legal Services of Greater Miami, and SLJ Legal and Consulting Services, PL, to host a Landlord and Tenant informational workshop in Liberty City.
The workshop will be held on Tuesday, August 18, 2009, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Joseph Caleb Center’s Meeting Room located at 5400 NW 22 Avenue in Miami. Attendees will learn about many different topics affecting both landlords and tenants such as the:
- Do's and don'ts of Leasing
- Understanding a Lease Agreement
- Legal Remedies
- Legal Process/Eviction Process
- Service Process
- Rental Assistance Programs
- Landlord and TenantRresponsibilities
"In these tough economic times, tenants and landlords need to understand their legal rights and responsibilities when leasing or renting a place to live. This partnership event will let people know of the services available in our community to help both landlords and tenants,” commented State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. "I'm happy to be involved in such a project."
For further information regarding the workshop, please contact Assistant State Attorney Kionne McGhee or Charmaine Cunningham at 305-636-2240.
WORKSHOP FLYER
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 7/29/09
Assistant State Attorney Gail Levine Selected for
National Prosecutor's Award
Miami (July 29, 2009) - Miami-Dade Assistant State Attorney and Senior Trial Counsel Gail Levine has been selected by the Association of Government Attorneys in Capital Litigation (AGACL) for their prestigious Trial Advocacy Award.
Ms. Levine, a prosecutor with the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office since 1985, was nominated for the national award by Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. Gail progressed rapidly within the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office prosecutorial ranks as a result of her exceptional trial skills. Within 3 years of her initial employment, she was prosecuting difficult homicide cases with consistent success.
As a Senior Trial Attorney, Ms. Levine has lectured and trained other Assistant State Attorneys and availed herself to help and counsel other prosecutors on how to effectively present a case. She is considered a master of trial tactics and is known for her advocacy skills.
Ms. Levine will be recognized by the AGACL and her peers at an awards ceremony this Friday morning, July 31, 2009, at 10:00 AM at the Hyatt Regency Hotel located at 400 SE 2nd Avenue in Miami.
State Attorney Fernandez Rundle was extremely honored and proud to learn of Gail’s selection for the award, commenting “There is no question that Gail Levine represents all that the Trial Advocacy Award symbolizes. While her courtroom trial work success is enviable, it is the immense respect that she has earned from crime victims and their families that mean the most to her and to all of us here in the State Attorney’s Office.”
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 07/14/09
Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle
- Selected for Verizon Wireless " HopeLine Hero Award"
Miami (July 14, 2009) - Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle has been selected by Verizon Wireless of Florida for their HopeLine Hero Award.
Last year, the State Attorney’s Office, in collaboration with Verizon Wireless of Florida and Safespace, hosted the Verizon Wireless of Florida Clothesline Project in the lobby of the Graham Building that houses the prosecutor’s main offices.
Artistically expressive T-shirts hung on a makeshift clothesline told emotional stories of abuse and healing by women, children and even men who had been affected by domestic violence. In addition to hosting the Clothesline Project, the State Attorney’s Office also collected used and broken cell phones that were refurbished and distributed to victims of domestic violence in our local community through Verizon Wireless’ HopeLine® program.
The award will be presented to the State Attorney on Wednesday, July 22, 2009, during a brief ceremony at the State Attorney’s Office. Verizon Wireless of Florida will also present a donation to Safespace at the event.
State Attorney Fernandez Rundle was extremely honored when she learned of her selection for the award, commenting that “The only way to end the scourge of domestic violence is for all of us to be involved in the effort. Not everyone can directly intervene as is done by law enforcement or by my prosecutors in court. I am humbled by this very meaningful recognition.”
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 6/16/09
Donte Stallworth Sentenced in Traffic Death
- NFL Football Player taken into Custody after Pleading Guilty
Miami (June 16, 2009) - Donte Stallworth, a member of the Cleveland Browns football team, pled guilty this morning in a Miami-Dade Circuit Court in the traffic death of Mario Reyes. Mr. Stallworth was criminally charged with DUI Manslaughter in April of this year after an intensive investigation by the Miami Beach Police Department and the State Attorney’s Office. Mr. Reyes was struck and killed as he attempted to walk across the MacArthur Causeway by a black Bentley GT driven by Mr. Stallworth. At the time of the accident, the field sobriety investigation conducted by Miami Beach Police officers indicated that Mr. Stallworth’s blood alcohol level was .126. Florida’s legal limit is .080.
State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle issued this statement: “Every case that we prosecute, especially those that involve the death of a human being, is closely scrutinized to ensure that a fair and just resolution is reached for all parties. We have specifically looked at the unique facts involved with this charge, Mr. Stallworth’s excellent pre-incident history of community service, abundant references that attest to his good character, his lack of any traffic violations or criminal convictions, his full and complete post-incident cooperation with law enforcement, and his willingness to accept complete responsibility for his actions. For all of these reasons, a just resolution of this case has been reached. The terms of the plea have been agreed upon between the State Attorney’s office and the police, and has been extended with the full endorsement and consent of the Reyes family, who believe that this plea and its timing are in the best interest of their 15 year old daughter, the sole remaining child of Mario Reyes. Although no sentence can ever restore Mr. Reyes to his family, the provisions of this plea will provide closure to them and appropriate punishment for Mr. Stallworth’s conduct and the effects of his actions that night.”
Donte Stallworth pled guilty before Judge Dennis Murphy as charged in the one count information filed by the State Attorney’s Office to the crime of DUI Manslaughter, a second-degree felony. Mr. Stallworth was adjudicated guilty and sentenced to 30 days in the Dade County Jail to be followed by:
- 2 Years of community control (house arrest)
- 8 Years of reporting probation with the following special conditions:
1. Drug and alcohol evaluation and treatment if recommended
2. Random drug testing
3. Lifetime driver’s license suspension and no driving
4. $2,500 donation to MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving)
5. $2,500 donation to “Parents of Murdered Children”
6. 1,000 hours of community service and all community service projects will be performed with the input and consent of the State Attorney's Office. These may include Public Service Announcements and speaking engagements with children about the danger and risks associated with drugs, alcohol, and driving, and how this case has affected him.
7. Cost Recovery to the Miami Beach Police Department in the amount of $1,842.88
8. Cost Recovery to Miami-Dade Police Department in the amount of $813.14
9. Court Costs of $583.00
After the sentence was pronounced, Mr. Stallworth was immediately taken into custody to begin serving his jail term.
State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle is available for further comments to the media. Please call 305-547-0535 to schedule your visit.
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 6/14/09
IMPORTANT NEWS - Arrest of South Dade Cat Killer
Miami (June 14, 2009) - Miami-Dade Police, working closely with Senior Trial Counsel Michael Von Zamft of the State Attorney's Office, have arrested the individual believed to be responsible for the gruesome massacres of cats in the South part of the county.
Tyler Weinman, an 18 year old Caucasian male who lives in the area, was taken into custody without incident in the early morning hours of Sunday, June 14, 2009.
"Our communities of Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay have been on edge for many weeks now because of the horrific and unspeakable slaughtering of many of their beloved feline pets. These are highly disturbing crimes. Cruelty against animals always deeply touches our hearts. I commend the police officers of the Miami-Dade Police Department and prosecutor Michael Von Zamft who worked tirelessly and exhaustively in order to put an end to these acts of cruelty", commented State Attorney Fernandez Rundle.
"I sincerely hope that with this arrest, the residents will feel relieved and their cats will be safe once again. My heart goes out to the pet owners who have suffered such a great loss. Let it be known that although these innocent creatures were not able to express their unexpected suffering, we will, without a doubt, defend their short lives by prosecuting these cases to the full extent of the law", added the State Attorney.
Circuit Judge Darryl Trawick signed the arrest warrant for Weinman on Saturday and the investigation into these terrible crimes continues.
This defendant is being charged with:
- 19 counts of Animal Cruelty (3rd Degree Felony)
- 4 counts of Burglary (2nd Degree Felony)
- 19 counts of Improperly Disposing of an Animal Body (Misdemeanor)
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 6/8/09
State Attorney's Office Offers Tips on How to Avoid Becoming a Victim of Hurricane Fraud
- Internet Video Offers Practical Tips For After the Storm
Miami (June 8, 2009) - To give citizens advance warning of problems and scams post-hurricane, State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle would again like to invite the community to view her video program titled “How To Avoid Becoming a Victim After The Storm” on the State Attorney's Office website www.miamisao.com
Information on contractor licensing, price gouging, insurance fraud and required building permits as well as methods to protect oneself from criminal activity are all available in this informative program. The material is bilingual and interested persons can access samples of documents mentioned in the video.
"Now that we are into another hurricane season I invite all of you to view on my office website a video presentation in both English and Spanish entitled: How To Avoid Becoming a Victim After The Storm", commented State Attorney Fernandez Rundle. "As a resident of this great community I know only too well the impact that a major hurricane can have on all of us. While we recognize the need to prepare for the possibility of a storm hitting our community, we must also be prepared to protect ourselves from the aftermath. It is my sincere hope that the contents of this program will continue to help provide you with the guidance and knowledge needed to ensure that no resident of our great community becomes a victim in the aftermath of a storm. I urge everyone to review the contents of this program as a part of their pre-hurricane planning."
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 05/12/09
Mothers Against Drunk Driving Annual Awards Ceremony
Miami (May 12, 2009) - During the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Annual Awards Ceremony our entire traffic investigation unit (David Gilbert, Patrick Trese, Ann Marie Buelterman, Deisy Hernandez, Chris Angell, Katheline Cortes, Laura Adams, Suzanne Sostmann, Nina Tarafa and Vanessa Wilson) were recognized for their dedication and hard work.
David Gilbert was given a Special Lifetime Achievement Award for his years of dedicated service and Pat Trese was given the Prosecution Award of Distinction. It is a pleasure to congratulate this esteemed group of skilled professionals for all they have done to make our streets safer and for bringing well-deserved recognition to our State Attorney's Office for all of our efforts to remove drunk and drugged drivers from our streets.
I particularly wanted to extend special congratulations to Assistant State Attorney David Gilbert. MADD wanted to recognize David for his years of dedicated service, particularly for his work in the prosecution of drunk drivers involved in fatal accidents. This Special Lifetime Achievement Award is a well-deserved recognition for one of our office’s most popular and most respected individuals.
Our community has not only benefited greatly by David’s work over the years, but it has also benefited from all of the efforts of those prosecuting our DUI cases.
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 05/08/09
Official Dedication and Raising of the POW-MIA Flag
- Ceremony Scheduled at Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office
Miami (May 8, 2009) - Pursuant to a recent Miami-Dade County Resolution adopted March 3, 2009, State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle and Miami-Dade Commissioner Jose “Pepe” Diaz will host the first official dedication ceremony to be conducted by a prosecutor’s office in the State of Florida as the POW-MIA flag is raised at the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s office’s main county building.
The ceremony, expected to be attended by state and local leaders, is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, 2009, at 4:00 PM at the E.R. Graham Building located at 1350 N.W. 12 Avenue, in Miami.
The POW-MIA flag was officially recognized by the 101st Congress in 1990 designating it as a symbol for the nation’s commitment to resolving the fate of Americans still being held prisoner, missing, or unaccounted for.
“This flag represents the sacrifice that thousands of combat veterans have made in defense of our freedoms. It is true that their whereabouts may be in question but it is also true that they will never be forgotten,” commented State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. “I invite all members of our community to join us in paying honor to the many dedicated men and women of our county who have served our country so well and have sacrificed so much to ensure our continued freedom”.
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 5/01/09
State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle
- Recognized during National Crime Victim's Rights Week
Miami (May 1, 2009) - As part of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week that runs from April 27 through May 1st, 2009, Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle received the “Justice For A ll” award during an annual ceremony to commemorate innocent victims of crime.
The luncheon event took place on April 29, 2009, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Coral Gables. Many local community leaders, law enforcement personnel, victim advocates and survivors gathered together to celebrate the 25-year anniversary commemorating the federal Victims of Crime Act.
State Attorney Fernandez Rundle was chosen for the annual award by a committee comprised of members of the Office of the Attorney General, the Victim/Witness Unit of the Coral Gables Police Department, and the Crime Victim Resource Network. The award recognizes individuals who have “gone above and beyond in providing services to victims of crime”
“Victims of crime are the primary concern in all of our cases. My prosecutors and support staff work tirelessly to ensure that victims' voices will never be silent", commented State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. "Our community is deeply indebted to every individual who has worked on behalf of victims and dedicated so many years of service to those who have fallen victim to crime".
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 4/16/09
Big Brothers Big Sisters of greater Miami to Honor
- Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle
Miami (April 16, 2009) - Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle has been selected by the Big Brothers Big Sisters Women’s Committee to receive a “Miracle Makers 2009” award.
The award will be presented to State Attorney Fernandez Rundle during a luncheon and fashion show on Friday, April 24, 2009 at the Eden Roc Resort in Miami Beach.
For the past eight years, Big Brothers Big Sisters has been honoring outstanding community leaders for their commitment and dedication to bettering the lives of children with this prestigious award.
“Big Brothers & Big Sisters know that our children are a resource that we must nurture for success. Their programs give kids support and direction while getting those same kids to believe that's it's all about having fun”, commented State Attorney Fernandez Rundle. “It truly humbles me to be recognized for my commitment to our children by a group so well-versed in helping develop a pathway to future success.”
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 4/9/09
State Attorney’s Office to Offer Survival Tips for Hard Times at
- “DO FOR SELF” Empowerment Seminar
Miami (April 9, 2009) - Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle, in conjunction with the Belafonte TACOLCY Center, Embrace Girls Foundation, and the African Heritage Cultural Arts Center is sponsoring a Community Empowerment Seminar on Saturday, April 25, 2009.
The event will take place at the African Heritage Cultural Arts Center located at 6161 N.W. 22nd Avenue in Miami from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The seminar is part of the popular and successful “Do For Self” Empowerment Program that was created by the State Attorney’s Office in 2007. The program was designed to help women learn the skills required to re-enter the workforce and all of the events are coordinated by the State Attorney’s Office Community Prosecution Program.
This seminar will include both men and women participants beginning with a presentation about dressing for the workplace by staff from Dressed for Success. Breakout sessions will follow with panelists representing several community agencies discussing such topics as effective job strategies, succeeding in the workplace, self esteem issues, managing and stretching your finances, and maintaining healthy relationships under stress.
Staff from the South Florida Workforce, Legal Aid, Community Relations Board, Miami-Dade College, Safespace, Miami-Dade Police Department, and other local agencies will join members of the State Attorney’s Office for the half-day seminar.
The event will conclude with a community resource fair wherein participants can retrieve information regarding child-care, employment opportunities, neighborhood services, and restoration of civil rights.
Please contact Assistant State Attorney Melba Pearson at 305-636-2240 for more information about this event.
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 4/1/09
Donte Stallworth Charged in Traffic Death
- Night Out Leads to Traffic Fatality
Miami (Apri 1, 2009) - State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle announced that the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office has criminally charged Donte Stallworth, a member of the Cleveland Browns football team, after an investigation into the traffic death of Mario Reyes. Mr. Reyes was struck and killed by a black 2005 Bentley GT registered to Donte Stallworth as he attempted to walk across the MacArthur Causeway.
The field investigation of the accident raised certain suspicions about the driver’s condition. Stallworth agreed to provide a blood sample which later analysis indicated a blood alcohol level of .126 that exceeded Florida’s .080 legal limit. Donte Stallworth will be formally charged with DUI Manslaughter, a second-degree felony, in court Thursday, April 2, 2009 before Judge Dennis Murphy.
"This is a terrible tragedy for the Reyes family and we have been in close contact with them throughout this entire investigative process”, commented State Attorney Fernandez Rundle. "Whenever a deadly accident occurs and a driver is impaired, families suffer. I can only repeat this message over and over: ‘if you are going to drink, don’t drive’. Be responsible or let someone else do the driving. The key to avoiding tragedy may be what you do with the car key you hold in your hand."
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 03/24/09
Caribbean Bar Association and Puerto Rican Bar Association to
- Honor Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle
Miami (March 24, 2009) - The Caribbean Bar Association and the Puerto Rican Bar Association will recognize Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle during a reception celebrating Women’s History Month.
The event will take place on Thursday, March 26, 2009 at 6:00 PM in the Lobby of the City National Bank located at 2855 Le Jeune Road in Coral Gables. State Attorney Fernandez Rundle will be honored for her achievements and contributions to our community as will United States District Court Judge Cecilia M. Altonaga and Rosie Gordon Wallace, the founder and curator of Diaspora Vibe Gallery.
“To be recognized by two of the most influential legal groups in our community truly humbles me”, commented State Attorney Fernandez Rundle. "The good work that the Caribbean and Puerto Rican Bar Associations do on behalf of and for all minorities in Miami-Dade County is exceptional and well-recognized.”
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 03/12/09
Miami Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle Honored by
Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce
Miami (March 12, 2009) - The Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce has honored Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle with their Community Dedication Award.
State Attorney Fernandez Rundle received the award on March 11, 2009, during the Chamber’s Women’s Month Celebration Quarterly Business Luncheon. Ms. Fernandez Rundle was the keynote speaker at the event that took place at the Doubletree Grand Hotel in Miami.
The Chamber recognized State Attorney Fernandez Rundle for her many accomplishments and contributions to the safety and quality of life in Miami-Dade County.
“Puerto Rican businesses play a vital role in the economic progress of Miami-Dade County much to the credit of their Chamber of Commerce”, commented Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. "To be recognized by such a distinguished group is an honor that I truly appreciate”.
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 03/10/09
State Attorney’s Office Partners with Community Agencies to Host
-Community Resource Fair
Miami (March 10, 2009) - Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle’s office partnered with the Florida Department of Corrections, Office of Community Corrections, and the Miami-Dade Reentry Task Force to host a “Community Resource Fair” in Liberty City for ex-offenders and other community residents. 
The fair was held on Monday, March 9, 2009, at the Caleb Center, located at 5400 NW 22 Avenue in Miami.
Staff from the prosecutor’s office and representatives from the partnering agencies provided valuable information to over 400 participants regarding access to available social and economic services. The turnout was a success.
“A prosecutor's job does not stop at the courtroom door. Helping released individuals avoid falling back into a pattern of criminal behavior is an important part of the fight against crime and violence”, commented State Attorney Fernandez Rundle.
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 3/3/09
Felony Charges filed against Belkis Gonzalez
- Former Hialeah Gynecological Clinic Owner
Miami (March 3, 2009) - Miami Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle and Hialeah Police Chief Mark Overton today announced the arrest and the filing of criminal charges against Belkis Gonzalez, the one-time owner of the A GYN Diagnostic Center, formerly located at 3671 West 16th Avenue, Hialeah. Today’s arrest ends a two and one-half year (2 ½) investigation by the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office and the Hialeah Police Department focused on events surrounding the unlicensed care which resulted in serious injury to an infant at that clinic after the mother had sought to terminate the pregnancy. This intensive and highly technical investigation was overseen by some of the most experienced prosecutors and police investigators of both law enforcement agencies.
Miami Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle and Hialeah Police Chief Mark Overton will only be available today (March 3, 2009) between 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. for individual interviews at the Office of the State Attorney, 1350 NW 12th Avenue, Miami. Please call (305) 547-0535 to make scheduling arrangements.
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 02/18/09
Homestead Police Officer And Girlfriend Arrested
- Lied About Circumstances Surrounding Recovery of Stolen Motorcycle
Miami (February 18, 2009)– A joint investigation by the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office and Miami-Dade Police Department General Investigations Unit has led to the filing of criminal charges against a Homestead police officer and his girlfriend after the off-duty officer held a number of individuals at gun point during a personal search to recover his stolen dirt bike. Homestead officer Jeremy Smith, a 3 1/2 year veteran of the force, is charged with:
- Armed Burglary (First Degree Felony Punishable by Life)
- Kidnapping with a Weapon (First Degree Felony)
- Aggravated Assault (Third Degree Felony)
- False Information to a Law Enforcement Officer (First Degree Misdemeanor)
Jeremy Smith’s girlfriend, Natalie Tao is charged with:
- Armed Burglary (First Degree Felony Punishable by Life)
- Kidnapping with a Weapon (First Degree Felony)
- Aggravated Assault (Third Degree Felony)
- Perjury in an Official Proceeding (Third Degree Felony)
The dirt bike was stolen from Smith’s residence in unincorporated Miami-Dade County. During the course of his private search for the missing property, Smith forced a juvenile suspected as complicit in the theft into his vehicle at gunpoint in order to locate the other thieves. Upon finding the stolen motorcycle at a residence, Smith eventually ordered several members of the family onto their garage floor, again at gunpoint, in order to recover the stolen property. When eventually questioned by Miami-Dade police about all of these events, Jeremy Smith lied about what transpired, contrary to the testimony provided by witnesses.
“Everyone must live by the requirements of our laws,” said State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. “No police officer can pursue a vigilante approach toward justice just because he has been the victim of a crime. ”
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 01/30/09
Arrest made in Horrific South Dade Crash
- 3 Young Victims were Family's only Children
Miami (January 30, 2009) - State Attorney Katherine Fernández Rundle and the Florida Highway Patrol announce the arrest today of Gabriel Delrisco, the man police say is responsible for the violent crash that took the lives of Hector Jr., Esmeralda, and Amber Serrano, the only children of Hector and Miriam Serrano of Homestead.
Delrisco, 40, upon his release from Jackson Memorial Hospital, was immediately booked into the Miami-Dade County Jail after preliminary toxicology tests revealed his blood-alcohol level at the time of the crash was .23, almost 3 times higher than the legal limit of .08.
The crash occurred in the early morning hours as the children’s father, Hector Serrano, was stopped at a red light on South Dixie Highway after having dropped off the children’s mother at the Dadeland South Metrorail Station. Mr. Serrano had not wanted to leave his 3 young children, ages 10, 7, and 4, alone while he drove their mother to the train station for her daily commute to work.
“This is a terrible and unnecessary tragedy that has destroyed the Serrano family and outraged our community,” commented State Attorney Fernandez Rundle. “These parents did everything right, and because of the irresponsibility of Gabriel Delrisco, their young beautiful children never had a chance. The message is constant; one that is prevalent day-in and day-out. It is strong, unequivocal and firm: Do not drink and drive".
Delrisco is charged with 3 counts of DUI manslaughter, each count carrying a potential penalty of 15 years in state prison.
Lt. Pat Santangelo of the Florida Highway Patrol stated, “In all of my years as a law enforcement officer, I have never seen such a horrific and violent crash scene. Every DUI that troopers come across is tragic and unnecessary, but this one is particularly horrible. My heart and those of all law enforcement goes out to the Serrano family. Accidents like this are precisely why we vigorously enforce our DUI laws.”
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 01/20/08
Miami-Dade State Attorney recognized for Role in FBI Corruption Prosecution
Miami (January 20, 2009) - The US Department of Justice Inspector General’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Massachusetts State Police honored State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle for her dedication of staff, resources and personal energies in the prosecution of former FBI Agent John J. Connolly Jr.
The special plaque was personally delivered to State Attorney Fernandez Rundle on Thursday, January 15, 2009, by James Marra of the US Department of Justice, jointly with Dan Doherty from the DEA, Massachusetts US Attorney Fred Wyshak, and Steve Johnson of the Massachusetts State Police.
State Attorney Fernandez Rundle was recognized for her “unwavering commitment to excellence and perseverance in the pursuit of justice in the prosecution of John J. Connolly, Jr.”, who was charged and convicted in the decades’ old Miami murder of World Jai Alai President John Callahan.
“Prosecuting a 25 year old case homicide case is never easy. This case, involving a disgraced FBI agent, required an enormous amount of work. My lawyers worked with the Federal government to reconstruct events, locate witnesses and pursue every lead in order to successfully prosecute this long and difficult case”, commented State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. “I am exceptionally proud of the hard work done by Assistant State Attorneys Michael Von Zamft and Joel Rosenblatt."
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 01/13/09
State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle Sworn in by Senator Bill Nelson
- All Miami-Dade Prosecutors Renew Their Oaths of Office
Miami (January 13, 2009) - Florida’s Senior United States Senator, Bill Nelson, officiated at the new term investiture of State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle and her 300 plus prosecutors this past Friday, January 9, 2009, before a packed house.
Alan Dershowitz, author, Harvard Law School Professor and television personality, addressed the audience along with Roberto Martinez, former United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida. Other notables who took center stage alongside the State Attorney included Miami Mayor Manny Diaz, Commissioner Rebeca Sosa, Aventura Chief of Police Steven Steinberg, Rabbi Solomon Schiff, Bishop Isaiah Williams, and Circuit Court Judge Leonard Glick. Channel 10’s Senior Political Reporter Michael Putney moderated the event.
“I feel exceptionally honored and proud to be embarking on a new term as Dade’s chief prosecutor,” commented State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. “I am also proud that so many of our crime fighting partners wanted to recognize the hard work that prosecutors do everyday in our community’s criminal courtrooms.”
The investiture took place at the Manuel Artime Theater located at 900 SW 1st Street in the City of Miami. A number of photographs of the event are attached.
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Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 01/13/09
Former Bal Harbour Official Charged
- Mixed Personal Spending with Government Position
Miami (January 13, 2009) - Former Bal Harbour Director of Tourism Jose Raul Lima was arrested today and charged with one count of Grand Theft Third Degree as a result of his five-year misuse of a Village of Bal Harbour credit card. Between 2003 and 2008, Tourism Director Lima bought eyeglasses, groceries, dry cleaning and pet grooming services among the $14,963.73 in personal purchases he charged on his Bal Harbour issued credit card. The bulk of the charges appear to have occurred between 2007 and 2008. He also fraudulently obtained $3,313.66 in cash advances provided as part of his expenses as Tourism Director. Upon discovery of the financial discrepancies, after an audit by the Bal Harbour Village Accounting Department, Lima resigned his position and has subsequently fully reimbursed the Village for all of the spending.
“It is always sad when a gifted professional abuses the authority granted to him and violates the law,” said State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. “After years of successful tourism work, Jose Raul Lima has thrown away his reputation in exchange for the mundane items of daily existence, groceries and dry cleaning.”
“I placed a lot of trust in Jose Lima in his professional role as Director of Tourism Marketing and am highly disappointed that he betrayed my trust, as well as that of the public, by his actions,” said Bal Harbour Village Manager Alfred J. Treppeda. “Mr. Lima was well aware of the Village’s policy on the use of a city credit card, yet made a conscious decision to violate it.” “This was even more of a shock since Mr. Lima was so highly regarded among those he worked closely with for his good work.”
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