As I review this month’s newsletter, I am humbled and amazed to see how the partnerships we have built and cultivated over the years has resulted in being able to do excellent work in and for our community. Coming together to find solutions to the problems facing those we swore to serve and protect allows us all to use our skills and talents for the greater good.
We are able to make a difference not only through our work at the SAO but also by creating opportunities for others to make a difference. Whether it is through pro bono work, community outreach events, or creating legislation, we are actively seeking to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents.
Sometimes the obstacles we face as law enforcement appear to be insurmountable, yet experience has taught us that these can be successfully overcome through communication and collaboration. Whether it is government agencies at the local, state, and federal levels or community organizations, my office is present to do what we can and do what is right.
Knowing that we have the support of our community partners, makes a difference to each person that has chosen to serve through their work at the SAO. We are proud to be a source of strength and healing for those who have been touched by crime. We not only seek justice for them and their loved ones but also seek to make them whole so they can continue to live their lives fully.
I want to thank you for supporting our endeavors and for being part of the positive difference that we are making together for our community.
Thank you and God Bless,
IN THIS EDITION
State Attorney Honored with "Pro Bono Champion" Award
2024 Assistant State Attorney Swearing-In Ceremony
State Attorney Honored with "Pro Bono Champion" Award
State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle was honored during the CABA Pro Bono 40th Anniversary Party receiving the "Pro Bono Champion" Award for her dedication to justice and commitment to supporting CABA through her years-long advocacy. This support has been instrumental in advancing the representation of victims of human trafficking.
"I am truly honored to be recognized alongside such a distinguished group of individuals dedicated to helping others, and grateful to an incredible organization committed to creating positive change in the lives of our human trafficking survivors, children, and families," commented State Attorney Fernandez Rundle.
Founded in 1984 by several of CABA’s past presidents, CABA Pro Bono was created to support poor and indigent Spanish-speaking individuals in Miami-Dade County by connecting them to Spanish-speaking attorney volunteers. In 2013, CABA Pro Bono also began collaborating with other organizations to expand its services to veterans, active members of the armed forces, victims of human trafficking, and unaccompanied immigrant minors.
For approximately 10 years, CABA Pro Bono has collaborated with the State Attorney’s Office to expand legal advocacy services for victims who may not otherwise be able to afford an attorney. This partnership has significantly touched the lives of those affected by crime, creating a positive and lasting impact in our community.
2024 Assistant State Attorney Swearing-In Ceremony
State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle hosted the Swearing-In Ceremony for the August 2024 Class of Assistant State Attorneys. Members of our Leadership Team, SAO staff, family, friends, and loved ones of our new prosecutors, joined the State Attorney.
“This is an important day, not just for our new prosecutors and their families and friends, but for everyone in our community. Your dedicated service will profoundly impact the people of Miami-Dade County as you learn, grow, and seek justice for our victims. You are stepping into a crucial role in the criminal justice system, as one of the most noble and important professions in modern America.”
“Being a prosecutor is more than a job. It is a deeply rewarding commitment to serve and protect the community. You will come to understand the vital role of a public servant, working on behalf of the people to protect the people. After five weeks of intensive training, you are well-equipped to embrace the principles of equality under the law, cultural sensitivity, and respect for diversity. These core values will guide you in the important work ahead."
The ceremony included the participation of United States District Court of Southern District of South Florida Judge Beth Bloom, who administered the Oath of Admission to The Florida Bar, Administrative Circuit Court Judge Juvenile Division Orlando Prescott, who administered the Assistant State Attorney Oath of Office, County Court Judge Kristy Nuñez, County Court Judge Alicia Garcia Priovolos, and Pastor Alphonso Jackson, Sr. who led the ceremonial invocation.
Congratulations to our 33 new Assistant State Attorneys.
Welcome to the “Best Team in America!”
"Together Against Hate"
Town Hall Meeting
State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle and Hate Crimes Unit Division Chief Justin Funck participated in the "Together Against Hate" Town Hall meeting at the Coral Gables Library.
Every year, thousands of Americans come under attack because of their race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, or disability. Armed with a mission to protect, defend, uphold, and enforce the criminal laws of Florida in Miami-Dade County, the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office established a Hate Crimes Unit (HCU) in 2016, to ensure that all residents get equal protection and access to the Smart Justice they deserve.
HCU Division Chief Justin Funck joined in a thought-provoking panel, featuring representatives from the FBI, Miami-Dade Police Department, the City of Miami Police Department, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, moderated by NBC 6's Jamie Guirola. Justin reminded attendees of the rise of hate crimes and explained the critical role of the State Attorney’s Office in public safety. The panel of local leaders and experts convened to address critical issues surrounding hate crimes and their impact on our community. They engaged with attendees, answering questions, and fostering an open dialogue about hate crimes, laws, and available resources for victims.
Foundations of Justice:
SAO Training Efforts
State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle hosted a two-day training for 50 local law enforcement agents on investigating Elder and Vulnerable Adult Crimes. Law enforcement training is a critical priority of the Elderly and Vulnerable Adult (EVA) Work Group, co-chaired by the State Attorney, Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, and Senator Rene Garcia, County Commissioner District 13. The group was created to strengthen the legal and social services infrastructure for elderly and vulnerable adults.
Members of the State Attorney’s Office EVA Unit presented on the latest elderly and vulnerable adult-focused criminal statutes, forensic accounting, reading medical records, criminal case studies, and labor trafficking of the elderly.
EVA Work Group members and subject matter experts, Melissa Pender and Lisa Lauck, Legal Services of Greater Miami; Dr. Pat Caralis; Ana M. Campaneria-Villarini, President of the Financial Institution Security Association (FISA); Joyce Galbut, Center Manager for CAHSD; Deborah Dietz, Executive Director of the Disability Independence Group; and Heidi Johnson-Wright, American Disability Coordinator provided training on types of Power of Attorney, property conveyances and reverse mortgages, Alzheimer’s Disease and interviewing persons with Dementia, types of fraud and obtaining evidence from financial institutions, nursing home and assisted living facilities, and vulnerable adults with disabilities. Detective Kenneth Sealy of the Aventura Police Department presented on grandparent scams.
US Department of State,
Office of Foreign Missions Training
State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle hosted the US Department of State, Office of Foreign Missions Assistant Director for Policy and Reciprocity Katherine Harris, and Regional Director Shannon Eisenhut, who provided local law enforcement agents and our Assistant State Attorneys with additional insight into the legal aspects of diplomatic immunity.
State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle was honored to speak during the Homeland Security Investigations Miami Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration. As Florida’s first Cuban American State Attorney, she reflected on her journey and acknowledged the significant growth of the community, highlighting their invaluable contributions, which have fostered respect and recognition.
During the celebration, themed "Pioneers of Change and Shaping Our Future,” she spoke about the rich culture and traditions of the Hispanic community, particularly in South Florida, emphasizing the role this community plays in shaping the vibrancy of the region.
Community Outreach in Action
Community Outreach Representative Angie Fernandez visited Miami Dade College - West Campus for Campus Safety Awareness Day. Campus Safety Awareness Day aims to inform students, faculty, staff, and the community of crime prevention and safety awareness tips, as well as resources and services offered through the State Attorney's Office that are available to the Miami-Dade community.
Community Outreach Representative Janeen Jones attended the Richmond Heights Alliance Meeting held at Second Baptist Church, hosted by Reverend Dr. Alphonso Jackson, Sr., where she spoke about SAO programs and services, including Child Support, Identity Theft Prevention, and the State Attorney's Second Chance Program.
Community Outreach Representative Angie Fernandez visited the WellMed Hialeah Senior Center to conduct a presentation about our Elder and Vulnerable Adults (EVA) Taskforce, Identity Theft Programs, and Voter's Rights. Angie shared information with participants on SAO programs and services by passing out a handout Voter's Rights and our EVA Taskforce.
SAO Program Spotlight:
Second Chance: Seal or Expunge
State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle thanks all who attended the “Second Chance” Seal or Expunge Event held at Miami Beach Community Church. The State Attorney’s Office, along with the help of the Miami-Dade Clerk of Court and Florida Public Defender Association assisted 65 individuals, with 38 eligible to seal or expunge one arrest in Miami-Dade County.
“Second Chance” Events would not be possible without the help of our amazing volunteers and community partners, including the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition and NAACP Miami-Dade Branch. We look forward to bringing the “Second Chance” Seal or Expunge Event to St. Thomas University on October 23, 2024, from 4:00 to 7:00 pm.
SAO Profile in Passion
Barbara Pelaez,
Supervisor, Case Processing
This month, we highlight a distinguished
member of our SAO family.
We present our
SAO Profile in Passion -
Barbara Pelaez.
Growing up in Washington Heights in New York City, Barbara Pelaez had dreams, of being a teacher working with children, in the field of law. She never imagined that her life’s purpose of working with people would lead to a 35-year career as the Supervisor of the Case Processing Center of the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office.
“The joy and caring that Barbara brings to her work at the State Attorney’s Office is only exceeded by the expertise and competence she brings to every project she touches,” said State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. “Our Case Processing unit is one of the central areas of the entire office. Sometimes it may be taken for granted due to Barbara’s impeccable management talents which makes this informational nerve center hum like a wellfunctioning machine. Barbara has always recognized that good staff are not machines and has always managed to motivate her people to succeed and to do so with a pleasure that makes the workday slip by. That is a skill truly born from the heart.”
Born and raised in Manhattan, Barbara was raised by her loving grandparents who made sure that she had a well-rounded education based on their Catholic faith and their Cuban traditions. “Yes! I was chaperoned until I was 18” years old. Back then there were no cell phones or internet. I played outside with my friends, stickball, slug, double-Dutch jump rope, Ringolevio, Johnny on the Pony, hide and seek and so many more. And yes!!! When streetlights went on, it was time to go home.”
“I went to Mother Cabrini which was an all-girl school. I loved it,” she explains. “I was in the band, playing drums, and Drama Club. Drama was my favorite and even considered it at one point to pursue it. High School allowed me to develop great lifelong friendships that I still have today.”
“We were the first Cuban family to live in a predominantly Orthodox Jewish building. Our neighbors were very welcoming and eventually, we became close, and they moved out! And then the Cubans, Puerto Ricans, Dominicans, and people from the Middle East moved in.
Growing up, I was always independent and for my grandparents allowing me to work was unheard of. One of our neighbors was miraculously able to convince my overprotective grandparents to let me work part-time with her at the Appellate Division Courthouse at 27 Madison Ave. I was 16 years old and worked 20 hours a week as a file clerk. I worked for the Fiduciary Relations Committee. They were a panel of nine judges that met to hear complaints regarding sitting judges. I worked there for four years and during the summer I worked even more hours. The best part of when the Judges would meet was I got free lunch from the Jewish Deli, pastrami or Roast Beef with a pickle and Black and White cookie. I learned and developed a great bond, in fact, the secretary at the time to this date, we talk at least once a week. She was like a second mom to me.”
After high school, she went to college in New York and took some paralegal classes. Due to a health issue with a family member, Barbara moved to Miami. She worked at a few law firms as she tried to adapt and find herself. She married and was a stay-at-home mom for several years.
After her divorce, she tried to get back into the workforce and ended up working in retail. Barbara worked at the Burdines at the 163rd Street Mall in North Miami Beach where she quickly moved up to management and oversaw the men’s department, fashion jewelry, and handbags at the same time. “I loved working with people in retail, but the schedule consisted of 70-hour weeks including nights and weekends. While working at Burdines, I remarried and had two boys. Changing careers was difficult but I wanted to be able to devote time to my kids.”
While Barbara was working, she was also attending Miami Dade College. And then something happened that changed the course of her life and took her in a completely different direction. A fellow manager from Burdines was hired as the head of Human Resources at SAO and began recruiting her former colleagues. That is when a group of highly successful managers from Burdines, including Barbara, joined the SAO in 1989.
“The interview process was very long. It was about four hours. I was interviewing but I really had no idea what position I was interviewing for,” she laughs. “I was hired for the Charge Form Project in the Case Processing Unit. I would be responsible for creating the actual charge form from scratch… and clearly, I had no idea what this entailed.”
“I remember starting on a Friday. It was challenging because I was doing something completely out of my comfort zone. Within a week, I was promoted to the supervisor of Case Processing. There were 26 employees, hours 7:00- 11:00 pm, Saturday 8- 12 in the Gerstein Building. Case Processing was known as “typing”. The unit typed and proofed all FSU and Division cases, processed arrest warrants, and worked closely with ASAs and support staff. Around 1992, we moved to the Graham Building. Case Processing merged with Word Processing and as technology evolved the unit became more automated. When COVID hit, we as an office went paperless and the lawyers began to type their cases.”
“Additionally, the unit went from transcribing to outsourcing transcriptions, requests, and downloading crime scene photo requests, and continued to handle all arrest warrants and Grand Jurys. I have an awesome team made up of seven wonderful staff members.”
“On October 6th it will be my 35th anniversary at the SAO. What I like about Case Processing is that you work with all different parts of the office. I enjoy helping lawyers, with procedures and support staff, interacting with the Clerk of Courts and Metro Dade Warrants. I enjoy being “part” of the change and giving input. If I were to pick my favorite part of Case Processing, it would be processing Arrest Warrants. Assisting lawyers and detectives with the process and to obtain a case number.”
“Another area is the Felony Screening Unit (FSU). We are a very tight-knit beautiful family. The people who work in FSU and Case Processing have been here for decades. We have seen each other grow up and have families. And now we are seeing our children having children!”
That familial bond was never more evident than when Barbara was diagnosed in 2014 diagnosed with cancer. “It isn’t a phone call you expect to get from your doctor saying that you have lymphoma. It was devasting,” she recalls. “I began with six months of chemotherapy. My first treatment was after 5 pm. I remember going there only to find supervisors and support staff there to support me! Even when I had a biopsy and I was in the pre-op room, I had workers visit me in the pre-op room. In my darkest time, my colleagues and the office were there for me.”
Barbara is a great ambassador of SAO who resolves issues and is a liaison within the office and with other external agencies. “I like doing all the research that I possibly can to find an answer and solution.”
“I am grateful to SAO because I have been able to have a work-life balance. I have had the flexibility to balance my professional life and raise my children while attending their sports, and baseball through high school and school events. Also, during COVID, while people were losing their jobs or not being paid, we at SAO did not feel that financial hardship because we never missed a paycheck. I am truly grateful.”
At age 67 Barbara is a couple of years away from completing her extended DROP and is focused on continuing to live the healthiest life possible and enjoy time with her family. Her three children are grown (42,32 and 28) and she has 9 grandchildren, with the two youngest being born in the last couple of weeks. And she is also a great-grandmother.
She loves house projects and will be doing a lot of those. Barbara will also continue her work on expanding her well-known elaborate Christmas Village that takes her weeks and months to organize and set up. It is truly a bit of a winter wonderland in her home.
“My biggest plan for the future is to stay healthy. When you have your health, you have it all. Life is short and you have to enjoy this moment. As a cancer survivor, I know the healing power of laughter and I never pass up an opportunity to laugh. I also realize that the most important thing we have is our health.” When you have HEALTH, you have it all!!!!!
In the News:
Man found guilty of killing cyclist on Rickenbacker Causeway in 2019
Congratulations to Felony Division Chief Johnathan Nobile and ASA Alexa Antin for securing a guilty-as-charged verdict for SecondDegree Murder with a Firearm. The Defendant is a Prison Releasee Reoffender and will receive a mandatory life sentence for the murder.
The Defendant and the Victim were involved in a fight inside Club Ecstasy in the early morning hours of April 24, 2016. Both were escorted out of the club. A security guard saw the Defendant run to his girlfriend’s car, enter it, and reach underneath the driver’s seat, seemingly for a weapon. The security guard told the Defendant to leave, but the Defendant decided not to let the issue go.
Shortly thereafter, the Defendant drove around to the front of the club where the Victim was standing with several other people. The Defendant had two friends in the car with him. He fired his gun through the passenger side window and shot the Victim in the face, killing him. Almost immediately, several security guards began discharging their firearms at the Defendant’s car as he drove away. His friend in the front passenger seat was shot in the head but survived.
Later, he abandoned the car and his two friends, taking the firearm he used to kill the Victim with him. However, crime scene detectives were able to recover a .40-caliber bullet casing inside the rear passenger seat of the car. They also recovered a .40-caliber bullet projectile lodged in the exterior wall of the club right behind where the Victim had been standing when he was killed.
The ASAs were not able to locate the front passenger when the case went to trial more than 8 years after the murder, and Defense tried to make him out as the shooter. The passenger from the backseat was uncooperative. He told the jury that he was being forced by the State to testify and would not identify the Defendant as the shooter.
The trial hinged almost entirely upon the security guard’s recollection of what occurred that night, as he was the only person who was able to identify the Defendant in court as the person who discharged a firearm from the vehicle back in 2016. The jury was able to view multiple CCTV videos from inside and outside the club as well, which corroborated the security guard’s story.
Throughout the trial, the defense unsuccessfully argued that the Defendant was an innocent bystander in the car on the night of the murder who was not aware and did not know what his passenger was going to do. However, this defense theory was contradicted by the circumstantial evidence and eyewitness testimony. The jury found the Defendant guilty of Second Degree Murder beyond a reasonable doubt.
The ASAs would like to thank Deputy Chief Assistant Nilo Cuervo, ASAs Lily Wisset and Khalil Quinan for their assistance with trial strategy and preparation.
Congratulations to Felony Division Chief Kevin Betancourt and ASA Annamarie Danylo for securing a guilty verdict of Second-Degree Murder.
The Victim and the “B” Co-Defendant were captured on surveillance video interacting with one another in front of a residence. The Victim was unarmed when he was abruptly attacked by “B” Co-Defendant, who brandished a knife and repeatedly stabbed the Victim in the torso. The “B” Co-Defendant was observed wrestling the Victim to the ground.
The Victim is observed making furtive movements to escape the attack, but the “B” Co-Defendant continued to stab the Victim. As soon as the “B” CoDefendant struck, the “A” Co-Defendant ran into the scene with a metal pipe. The “B” Co-Defendant stabbed the Victim over 30 times, while the “A” Co-Defendant utilized the long metal pipe to prevent the Victim from getting up from the ground.
The Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner (ME) performed an autopsy on the Victim and determined the cause of death was multiple stab wounds classifying the manner of death as a homicide.
At trial the “B” Co-Defendant framed the Victim as being insane on drugs and claimed to have acted in self-defense. The ME Toxicologist testified that the Victim had 10 times the therapeutic dose of meth in his system. The “A” Co-Defendant’s defense was that he saw his brother being attacked and just acted in defense of his brother. After 7 hours of deliberation, the jury convicted the “B” Co-Defendant.
The ASA would like to thank Felony Supervisor Marquietta Reed, Trial Coordinator Trevon Gayle, Lead Worker Janet Gonzalez, and Victim Advocates Isis Ferreiro and Marilyn Fiallos, for helping to secure justice for the Victim.
