###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 09/16/08
Miami Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle to Address the
Aventura-Sunny Isles Chamber

Miami (September 16, 2008) - Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle will be the keynote speaker at the Aventura-Sunny Isles Chamber of Commerce’s monthly event on Wednesday, September 17, 2008.

The Chamber will also recognize State Attorney Fernandez Rundle for her professional achievements at the special luncheon that will take place at Gulfstream Race Track in Hallandale. This event was previously scheduled for August but was canceled due to Tropical Storm Fay.

“The business communities of the cities of Aventura and Sunny Isles have been engines of progress for all of Miami-Dade County, 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”.

###

Contact: Ed Griffith 305-547-0535 09/15/08
Corrections Officer Charged in Program Theft
- Inmates’ Monitoring Fees Stolen

Miami (September 16, 2008) - A joint investigation by the Miami-Dade Department of Corrections and the Public Corruption Unit of the Miami-Dade State Attorneys Office has led to the arrest of 37 year old Corrections Officer James Allen Canty, for the theft of department funds intended to pay for the monitoring of pre-trial release inmates. Canty, a 14-year Corrections employee, worked as a Court Liaison in the Monitored Release Program. He coordinated the jail release of inmates into the program, set up the monitoring equipment and collected the initial program fees. It was his theft of some $3671.00 of these fees that led to his arrest. He is charged with one count of Grand Theft Third Degree.

The discovery of the missing Department of Corrections funds came to light after the mother of an inmate complained that she had purchased a $190.00 money order for her son’s initial program payment and was advised that the money had not been received. She then placed a trace on the money order and found that James Allen Canty had cashed it. An audit of the Monitored Release Program’s files revealed that in 19 other instances, money orders intended for the Department of Corrections were signed as payable to Canty and were cashed by him. The amounts of the missing money orders varied from $50.00 up to $330.00. Either an inmate or a member of an inmate’s family had given the money orders to Canty. In all cases, the missing money orders had been given to Canty with the “Payable To” line left blank. It appears that inmates and their families were told that a stamp with the program’s name would be used, so it was to be left blank. No inmates were refused release due to Canty’s actions.

“Officer James Canty was arrested based on an internal investigation by our department”, commented Miami-Dade Department of Corrections Director Timothy P. Ryan. “It is always disheartening when such incidents occur, but the department is committed to upholding the integrity of our professional officers and staff.”

“When an individual is charged with insuring that released inmates follow the law and then he commits a crime himself, he not only embarrasses his department, he brings the entire correctional process into question. Neither my prosecutors nor the Miami-Dade Department of Corrections will ever tolerate such behavior”, stated Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle.

###

Contact: Ed Griffith 305-547-0535 09/12/08
State Attorney’s Office Employees Mobilize To Support Caribbean Hurricane Victims
- SAO to collect food, clothing & medicine to ease the plight of our regional neighbors

Miami (September 12, 2008) - Miami-Dade State Attorney Kathy Fernandez Rundle and the 1,300 employees of the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office have joined the effort to help relieve the suffering of our Hurricane ravaged neighbors by collecting food, clothing & medicine.

“We can not see these pictures of utter devastation and not feel moved to tears,” commentated Miami-Dade State Attorney Kathy Fernandez Rundle. “ If Hurricanes Fay, Gustav & Ike had come in our direction, it might have been our faces on the TV screens. We, who have been spared, now need to help those who barely have been left with the clothes on their backs.”

Canned goods, clothing & over the counter medicines will be collected at the loactions listed below during the week of September 15-19, 2008. These goods will then be transported and distributed to those in need.

• Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Main Office - 1350 N.W. 12th Ave., Miami
• Child Support Office - 100 S. Biscayne Blvd., Room 3100, Miami
• Juvenile Division - 3302 N.W. 27th Ave., Miami
• County Court Division - 1469 N.W. 13th. Ter., Miami

###

Contact: Ed Griffith 305-547-0535 08/06/08
56 Government Employees Arrested in Health Insurance/Oxycontin Scam

Miami (August 6, 2008) - The Miami-Dade Police Department and the Miami-Dade County State Attorney’s Office, announce that they have obtained arrest warrants for sixty two (62) individuals, signed by a judge, in the 11th Judicial Circuit in and for Miami-Dade County, Florida, charging them with racketeering, conspiracy to commit racketeering and/or grand theft. Among the defendants charged are a number of current and former public employees:

• 1 - City of Hialeah Police Officer
• 2 - Miami-Dade County Corrections and Rehabilitation Corrections Officers
• 17 - Miami-Dade County Public Schools Bus Drivers
• 10 - Miami-Dade County Public Schools Bus Attendants
• 5 - Miami-Dade County Public Schools Security Officers
• 3 - Miami-Dade County Public Schools Custodians
• 2 - Miami-Dade County Public Schools Teacher Assistants
• 6 - City of Miami Department of Solid Waste
• 1 - City of Miami Crane Operator
• 2 - Miami-Dade County Transit Bus Drivers
• 1 - Felony Clerk from Miami-Dade County Circuit Court
• 1 - Helen B. Bentley Family Health Center Driver
• 1 - Miami-Dade County Human Services Data Entry Specialist
• 1 - Miami-Dade County Human Services Employee (other)
• 1 - Miami-Dade County General Services Administration (GSA) Employee
• 1 - Department of Children and Families Employee
• 1 - Former Employee of Family Christian Services

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 07/22/08
State Attorney's Response To The Public Defender's Motion To Withdraw

Miami (July 22, 2008) - The documents comprising the State Attorney's response to the Public Defender's motion to withdraw from new felony cases can be found on the official website of the Office of the State Attorney for the Eleventh Judicial Circuit at the links located below.

• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - (PDF)
• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - Appendix - (PDF)
• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - Exhibit A - (PDF)
• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - Exhibit B - (PDF)
• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - Exhibit C - (PDF)
• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - Exhibit D - (PDF)
• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - Exhibit E - (PDF)
• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - Exhibit F - (PDF)
• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - Exhibit G - (PDF)
• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - Exhibit H - (PDF)
• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - Exhibit I - (PDF)
• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - Exhibit J - (PDF)
• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - Exhibit K - (PDF)
• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - Exhibit L - (PDF)
• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - Exhibit M - (PDF)
• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - Exhibit N - (PDF)
• SAO Response to PDO Motion to withdraw - Exhibit O - (PDF)

###

Contact: Ed Griffith 305-547-0535 06/26/08
Shooter Charged in Chili’s Restaurant Deaths

Miami (June 26, 2008) - A joint investigation by the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office and the Miami-Dade Police Department has led to this morning’s arrest of 31 year old Gabriel Mobley for his role in the February 28, 2008 shooting at a Miami Lakes-area Chili's Grill & Bar that left Jason Jesus Gonzalez and Rolando Carrazana dead. Rendering a filing decision on this matter required interviewing an extensive number of witnesses in addition to the careful evaluation of all the physical evidence, including a surveillance camera video.

Gabriel Mobley is being charged with two counts of Second Degree Murder. At present, he is being held without bond.

“It is always sad when a late-night situation at a local restaurant escalates toward violence and death,” State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle said. “The pains-taking investigative review undertaken by some of my most skilled prosecutors with the help of some of the most experienced homicide detectives in the Miami-Dade Police Department has yielded more than enough evidence to take this case to trial.”

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 06/19/08
Miami Dade State Attorney Kathernine Fernandez Rundle Honored by Florida Network of Victim Witness Services
- State Attorney Receives the James Fogarty Award

Miami (June 19, 2008) - The Florida Network of Victim Witness Services, Inc. selected Miami Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle as the recipient of their 2007-2008 James Fogarty Award.   This award is presented annually to a Floridian who has made a lasting contribution to further the cause of Victim and Witness Services.  State Attorney Fernandez Rundle received the award at the organization’s annual luncheon on June 19th at the Deauville Beach Resort in Miami Beach.

“I am proud of the many successful efforts we have pioneered in order to ease the plight of crime victims.  In Miami, I have made it one of my career goals to ensure that victims are never forgotten,” commented Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle.    “It is truly an honor for me to receive this award which I also see as a recognition of the expertise developed by my staff of victims advocates.   Their everyday work with victims and witnesses is an essential element in our daily quest for justice.”

###

Contact: Ed Griffith 305-547-0535 06/18/08
Hialeah Employees Charged in Metals Theft
- Sold City Supplies as Excess Scrap

Miami (June 18, 2008) - An initial inquiry into whether Hialeah Water and Sewer Department employees were leaving their job sites during working hours evolved into an investigation focusing on the theft of city-owned copper and brass piping.

Twenty year Hialeah Water & Sewer Department Supervisor Mark Castor, along with department employee Deon Hart, were charged today with a series of metals thefts, occurring between 11/30/07 and 4/10/08, which netted the individuals more than $11,000 in fees from an Opa Locka metal recycler. In one instance, Castor and Hart were observed cutting and damaging newly requisitioned copper tubing in order to facilitate the sale of the valuable metal. During the workday trips to the Opa Locka metal recycler, Caster used blank magnetic signs to cover the City of Hialeah markings on his work truck.

Mark Castor is charged with:
• 18 Counts - Dealing in Stolen Property (Second Degree Felony)
• 1 Count - Grand Theft (Third Degree Felony)

Deon Hart is charged with:
• 1 Count - Grand Theft (Third Degree Felony)

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 06/18/08
Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office to Host Domestic Violence Art Exhibit
- Traveling Art Exhibit Tells Candid Stories of Pain and Healing

Miami (June 18, 2008) - Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle, in collaboration with Verizon Wireless of Florida and Safespace, will host the Verizon Wireless of Florida Clothesline Project from June 24th through July 11^th.

Artistically expressive T-shirts that hang on a makeshift clothesline and tell emotional stories of abuse and healing by women, children and even men who have been affected by domestic violence, will be on display in the lobby of the E.R. Graham Building located at 1350 N.W. 12^th Avenue in Miami. Local community leaders and a domestic violence survivor impacted by this devastating social issue will be on hand to discuss the destructive effects of domestic violence on our local community.

In addition to hosting the Clothesline Project, the State Attorney’s Office will collect used and broken cell phones which will be refurbished and distributed to victims of domestic violence in the local community through Verizon Wireless’ HopeLine^® program.


“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. But a small commitment, like donating an old cell phone to be an emergency safeguard, can save someone’s life”, commented State Attorney Fernandez Rundle. “All of the small steps we take together can quickly turn into a giant leap forward.”

A press conference to kick-off the month long event is scheduled for Tuesday, June 24th, at 2:00 PM, in the lobby of the Graham Building. Everyone is invited to attend.

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 06/17/08
Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office to Host Clean-up Project at Magnolia North
- Area Formerly Known as "The Triangle" to Get Makeover

Miami (June 17, 2008) - Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle, in collaboration with community partners from the City of Opa-Locka Police and Public Works Departments, DARE, Department of Juvenile Justice, Belafonte Tacolcy Center, Children’s Trust, Florida Department of Children and Families, Community Empowerment Team, and other local agencies, will host a clean-up project of the Magnolia North area of Opa-Locka this Tuesday, June 24^th, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

The area has long been plagued by violence, neglected of service, and is full of vacant lots and dilapidated structures. Tuesday’s event will bring together the residents of this community who have become very proactive in working vigilantly with city and county officials to change the image of the former area known as “The Triangle”. Volunteers from numerous community agencies have signed up to help the community create a cleaner and safer neighborhood.

"A community can only be turned around when we all work together to accomplish that goal,” commented State Attorney Fernandez Rundle. “The residents of Opa-Locka have a deep foundation of spirit and loyalty to their community on which they can draw. I know our efforts on Tuesday will have a positive, long-lasting effect for the city.”

Food, beverages, and the necessary equipment needed to complete the project will be provided. Everyone is welcome to join in this worthwhile clean-up effort.

Volunteers are asked to meet at 9:00 AM on Tuesday morning in the parking lot of the Opa-Locka Cultural Arts Center located at 2105 Ali-Baba Avenue. For further information, please contact Kionne McGhee at 305-636-2240.

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 06/13/08
Miami Dade State Attorney Kathernine Fernandez Rundle to be Honored by Florida Network of Victim Witness Services
- State Attorney to Receive the James Fogarty Award

Miami (June 13, 2008) - The Florida Network of Victim Witness Services, Inc. has selected Miami Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle to receive the 2007-2008 James Fogarty Award.

The award is presented annually to a Floridian who has made a lasting contribution to help further the cause of Victim or Witness Services.

State Attorney Fernandez Rundle will receive the award at the organization’s annual luncheon on June 19^th at the Deauville Beach Resort in Miami Beach.

Upon being nominated for the award, State Attorney Fernandez Rundle commented: “It is truly an honor for me to have been selected for this important award. One of my top priorities has always been to ensure that our victims and witnesses receive whatever services they need as their role in our daily quest for justice is invaluable.”

###

Contact: Ed Griffith 305-547-0535 06/11/08
Reynaldo Diaz, Developer In Housing Scandal, Pleads Guilty
- Agrees to Assist Prosecutors in Criminal Investigations

Miami (June 11, 2008) - Reynaldo Diaz, a housing developer charged last year as a part of the ongoinginvestigation into the potential misuse of governmental monies intended to build low income housing, has pled guilty to his original charge, 1 count of an Organized Scheme to Defraud. This plea should help expand the ongoing investigation into our community’s funding for low-income housing originally intended to help the needy.

While Mr. Diaz did build 2 homes with the $940,000 he received from our local housing authorities, the 26 other contracted homes were never built. Investigators from the Miami Dade Office of the Inspector General and prosecutors from the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office discovered that Mr. Diaz received a substantial county check to build homes on 6 properties that he never owned. A few false documents and a sales agreement signed by one of Mr. Diaz's employees----who also did not own the property----was all it took to get county housing funding.

Under the terms of the plea agreement ratified today in court before Circuit Court Judge Israel Reyes, Reynaldo Diaz will serve three (3) years probation with a number of special conditions:

• 326 days physically working for Habitat for Humanity in the construction of homes for the needy
• He will provide full cooperation in our ongoing housing investigations
• He will pay $10,000 for cost of prosecution
• And he is prohibited from any future financial dealings with Miami-Dade County

These conditions are in addition to the $940,000 of restitution that he previously returned to Miami-Dade County.

“The virtual year of hard labor and sweat equity Reynaldo Diaz will personally perform helping the needy will not only improve our community physically, it will fulfill a part of the promise he made when he initially sought out county money,” commented State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. “Reynaldo Diaz’ cooperation and testimony in our ongoing housing investigations not only will make our criminal cases stronger, but should assist in bringing all the individuals who were a part of these deceptive, heartbreaking schemes, to justice.”

###

Contact: Ed Griffith 305-547-0535 05/28/08
Press Conference On Kickback Scheme Arrest
- Engineering Consultant Charged

Miami (May 28, 2008) - On Wednesday afternoon, May 28, 2008, State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle, the Miami-Dade Police Department Public Corruption Investigations Bureau and the Miami-Dade County Commission on Ethics and Public Trust will hold a joint press conference at the Office of the State Attorney to announce the arrest today of Emmanuel Nwadike, sometimes referred to as the “City Engineer” for the City of Opa Locka.

The press conference will be held at 3:00 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.

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 05/13/08
Miami Dade State Attorney's Office to Participate in Hands on
Miami Service Juris Day 2008
- Annual Volunteer Service Project by Miami's Legal Community

Miami (May 13, 2008) - The Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office will join members of the Cuban American Bar Association, Dade County Bar Association, Young Lawyers Section, Bilzin Sumberg Baena Price & Axelrod,  LLP, BNY Mellon Wealth Management, Daily Business Review, Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson, P.A., Robert Half International, Pathman Lewis, LLP, and the Dade County Public Defender’s Office this Saturday, May 17^th, for the 3^rd annual Hands on Miami Service Juris Day 2008.

This year’s event will take place at the Juvenile Justice Center and Miami Dade Regional Juvenile Detention Center located at 3300 N.W. 27^th Avenue in Miami. Volunteers from Miami’s legal community, along with children, family, and friends, will undertake the extensive renovation and work that the center is in need of by painting, adding new landscaping, and beautifying the facility’s waiting areas and grounds.

“Service Juris Day is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together in the spirit of helping those who are less fortunate,” commented State Attorney Fernandez Rundle. “This pro-bono project is a worthwhile event that truly enhances people’s lives”.

Registration and breakfast begin at 8:30 AM and the four-hour project is expected to begin at 9:00 AM. The cost is $20.00 and participants must register in advance at www.handsonmiami.org.

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 05/07/08
Miami Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle Honored by the Dade County Bar Association
- State Attorney Receives the Robert L. Shevin Public Service Award

Miami (May 7, 2008) - The Dade County Bar Association has honored Miami Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle with the prestigious Robert L. Shevin Public Service Award.

The award is bestowed in memory of the late Honorable Robert L. Shevin, one of only two men in the latter half of the twentieth century to serve in all three branches of Florida state government.

State Attorney Fernandez Rundle received the award at the Bar’s annual luncheon on May 7^th at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Miami.

“It is truly an honor for me to receive this award today” commented Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. " Judge Shevin was a mentor to many of us and my passion for this community, like his, is what drives me to continue in public service.”

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 05/06/08
Sweetwater "MOVES" Against Domestic Violence
- State Attorney's Office, Mayor and Police Department Act to Save Lives

Miami (May 6, 2008) - Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle, in collaboration with Sweetwater Mayor Manuel Moroño and Police Chief Roberto Fulgueira, are proud to announce the initiation of the MOVES Program in the City of Sweetwater as a part of the overall effort by community leaders to combat family violence. 

MOVES (Mobile Operations Victim Emergency Services) was created in 1998 by State Attorney Fernandez Rundle in order to expedite services to victims of domestic violence and other crimes. MOVES responds immediately after a domestic violence arrest to gather a victim’s valuable testimony and that of the involved police officer. MOVES staff also provide information on programs and referral services available to victims.

The efforts of State Attorney Fernandez Rundle, Mayor Moroño, Chief Fulgueira, Major Roberto Ochoa, Corporal Milian Zabala, and MOVES Director Juan Ferreiro on behalf of the residents of Sweetwater were made with one goal in mind: to assist the city’s police department to better meet the needs of all the residents of this diverse community.

“By taking this important step, we will be fighting violence in the home which affects all the residents in a household, adults and children alike,” commented State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. “Through early action and intervention, we may be able to end the suffering and fear that is always a part of these crimes of violence. I commend the City of Sweetwater for their commitment toward ending these horrible crimes.”

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 05/02/08

Miami Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle
Re-elected without Opposition

Miami (May 2, 2008) - Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle has won another four-year term in office without opposition.

She has been the State Attorney for Miami-Dade County since 1993 in what is the fourth largest prosecutor’s office in the country. The office employs 1200 strong with 300 prosecutors and 900 support staff.

“I am extremely grateful for the honor to continue to serve all of the people of Miami-Dade County”, commented State Attorney Fernandez Rundle. “The message this great community has given me and my wonderful team is to keep up the good work and continue making this wonderful community a safer place in which to live.”

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 04/29/08
Miami Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle to Participate in Cuban National Council Conference
- 14th Biennial National Conference to be Held in Miami

Miami (April 29, 2008) - Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle will join the Honorable Anna Escobedo Cabral, Treasurer of the United States, Raquel “Rocky” Equsquiza, Director of Community Development and International Strategy for Ford Motor Company Fund, Helen Aguirre Ferre, Director Opinion Pages for Diario Las Americas, Cid Wilson, Conference Chairman of the Dominican American National Roundtable, and Ralph Yaniz, Regional Vice President for Midwest AARP, for a plenary session at the 14th National Conference of the Cuban American National Council.

The biennial event will be held at the Radisson Hotel Miami on May 1^st and 2^nd, and the theme this year is “The New Generation of Hispanic Leaders”. The plenary session that includes State Attorney Fernandez Rundle is titled “Framing Community Issues and Agendas” and will focus on the ever-growing Hispanic community and the many issues facing this population.

The conference is expected to attract hundreds of Hispanic leaders, policy makers, advocates, corporate leaders, and direct service providers from all over the United States for discussion, analysis, and agenda setting on critical issues affecting our community.

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 04/28/08
The State Attorney's ValuJet Memorial Fund makes Donation to Sant La Haitian Neighborhood Center
- Funds to be used for Educational Purposes

Miami (April 28, 2008) - Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle presented a $5,000 contribution from the State Attorney’s ValuJet Memorial Fund to the Sant La Neighborhood Center at their annual gala dinner on Thursday, April 24^th.

The Sant La center, a nonprofit organization, provides information and referral services in the areas of social services, education, housing opportunities, economic self-sufficiency, and access to healthcare and legal services to residents of the Little Haiti neighborhood in Miami. Sant La is also devoted to developing capacity building and collaboration opportunities for neighborhood agencies.



“The Sant La Haitian Neighborhood Center is a community jewel whose value to our Haitian citizens grows day by day,” commented State Attorney Fernandez Rundle. “It is my pleasure to help Sant La educate more individuals and families so that the complexities of our legal system are better understood, and, as a result, crime victim’s services are made more accessible to everyone.”

The donated funds, designated for “education, victim’s services, and flight safety”, were part of the punishment imposed in the ValuJet case.

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 04/21/08
Miami Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle Honored by MADD
- Traffic Homicide Unit also Recognized

Miami (April 21, 2008) - Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) presented Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle with their “Program Support Award of Honor” at their annual awards ceremony on April 17^th.

The national organization also recognized the 15 members of the office’s Traffic Homicide Unit for their invaluable on-call assistance to law enforcement in support of MADD’s mission. Honored were prosecutors Kathleen Hoague, David Gilbert, Christopher Angell, Laura Adams, Patrick Trese, Deisy Rodriguez, Brook Anderson, Ann Marie Buelterman, Kathleen Cortes, Rachel Walters, Juan Carlos Perez, Nina Tarafa, Christopher DeCoste, Suzanne Sostmann, and homicide counselor Vanessa Wilson.


The dinner event took place at the Rusty Pelican Restaurant on Key Biscayne.


“I have always praised MADD’s relentless mission to stop drunk driving, prevent underage drinking, and their never-ending support for the victims of this violent crime,” commented Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. "It is truly an honor to have been selected for this award. I know that our community is deeply indebted to MADD for their many years of advocacy on behalf of those who have fallen victim to a drunk driver."

###

Contact: Ed Griffith 305-547-0535 04/14/08
Former Medley Councilman Gets Jail in Bribery Plea

Miami (April 14, 2008) - In a court hearing held today, former 14-year Medley councilman, Eugenio “Gene” Advincula, pled guilty to one (1) count of bribery and one (1) count of conspiracy to commit bribery resulting from his May 8, 2007 arrest. Advincula had been arrested after taking a $10,000 payoff for his council vote to renew a business occupational license.

After pleading guilty and being adjudicated guilty, Mr. Advincula was immediately taken into custody to start serving his 90-day jail term. In addition to the jail time, he will then serve 1 year of house arrest, 2 years of probation and will pay $4,500 of investigative costs relating to this case.

“This case should send another clear message to anyone who mistakenly thinks that an elected office is intended to be the way to put cash into one’s own pocket. We in law enforcement will act swiftly and effectively to bring you to justice,” said Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. “The Miami Dade Police Department Public Corruption Bureau, working with my Public Corruption prosecutors, did a superb job of developing the firm investigative foundation which led to Mr. Advincula’s conviction.”

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 03/13/08
Funeral Services for Sister of Miami-Dade State Attorney
Katherine Fernandez Rundle

Miami (March 13, 2008) - It is with great sadness and terrible pain that we inform you that Mrs. Helenita Fernández, the sister of Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernández Rundle, passed away Tuesday evening, March 11^th, after a long battle against breast cancer.

Born in Coral Gables, Helenita, 55, was a lifetime resident of Miami-Dade County. She was pre-deceased by the unexpected death of her husband, Charles “Chuck” Bacher, early last year and more recently, the passing of her mother, Marylou Fitzgibbons Fernández this past December.

Helenita is survived by her children, Julia Marie Bacher and Robert Charles Bacher, her sister Kathy, brothers Steven Carlos Fernández (sister-in-law Bianca) and Fitz Carlos Fernández, and nephews and nieces Evan Carlos Rundle, Justin Robert Rundle, Carla Daniella Fernández, Perla Bianca Fernández, Krystal Stefanny Fernández.

Nita, as she was affectionately known, obtained her Master’s Degree in Mental Health from St Thomas University and most recently was the Executive Director of Agape, an agency that serves women coming out of the prison system as a re-entry program into the community.

“Nita was my life’s best friend and she always gave of herself. For over 20 years, she thrived on helping the needy of our community; society’s cast-asides and society’s lost. She deeply believed that in resurrecting a single life, we created a potential universe of hope”, commented State Attorney Katherine Fernández Rundle.

Services will be held this evening, Thursday, March 13th, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, at Van Orsdel Funeral Home located at 11220 S.W. 88th Street (North Kendall Drive), in Miami. A mass in her honor will be celebrated at 4:30 PM tomorrow, Friday, March 14^th, at St. Louis Catholic Church, 7270 S.W. 120th Street, in Miami.

In lieu of flowers, The Bacher Children's Fund has been established for the welfare and education of Helenita & Chuck's children, Julia and Robert Bacher. It is respectfully requested that contributions to the Fund be sent payable to "Michael G. Bass, P.A. Trust Account", at Michael G. Bass, P.A., 8900 S.W. 107 Avenue, Suite 206, Miami, FL 33176. Please be sure to write: "Bacher Children's Fund" on your check. Thank you.

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 03/12/08
A Good Friday Against Crime
- Block Party to Promote Taking the Streets

Miami (March 12, 2008) - Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle in conjunction with community partners from the City of Miami and Miami-Dade Police Departments, Miami-Dade Weed and Seed, and the Belafonte Tacolcy Center, will host a block party on Friday, March 21^st, from 6:00 to 10:00 PM.

This Good Friday event, a family-oriented block party, will be held at the Belafonte Tacolcy Center located at 6161 NW 9th Avenue in Liberty City. The event is aimed at encouraging the community to “take back their streets” and to promote goodwill between our local police and the residents of Liberty City.

Some of the scheduled activities include 3 on 3 basketball teams and performances by Christian R & B vocalist “God’s Baby Girl”. Several community agencies such as The Village South/ SISTA Program, the Department of Children and Families, Americorp/VISTA, Legal Services of Greater Miami, and the Community Outreach Program of the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office will set up booths with free information on the services they provide. There will also be food, music, and face painting for the children.

For further information, please contact Melba Pearson at 305-636-2240. To sign up for one of teams, please contact Sheree Harrington at 305-751-1295, ext. 134.

###

Contact: Ed Griffith 305-547-0535 03/10/08
K-9 Officer Charged in Animal Cruelty Case
- Police Dog Starves to Death at Handler’s Residence

Miami (March 10, 2008) - After a joint investigation undertaken by the City of Miami Police Department and the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office, City of Miami K-9 Officer Rondal Lardy Brown has been charged with two (2) felony offenses resulting from the death of his assigned K-9 partner, a bloodhound named “Dynasty, at Officer Brown’s home.

These charges arise from circumstances that were initiated on November 30, 2007,when Officer Rondal Brown notified his K-9 unit supervisor that he found his police dog, Dynasty dead in her dog kennel. Upon arriving at Officer Brown’s home, the supervisor found the dog’s corpse bagged and ready for disposal, with a strong foul odor coming from the bag. The dog’s body was transported to the Knowles Animal Clinic where the doctor noticed the strong foul odor coming from the dog, the dog’s sunken eyes and the dog’s protruding rib cage. The investigation noted that the dog was last seen at the Knowles Animal Clinic, its medical provider, on January 23, 2007. At that time Dynasty was in good health, weighing 66 pounds. On November 30th, the animal weighed thirty-three (33) pounds, half of her previous body weight. A necropsy performed at the animal clinic revealed an open wound on the dog’s front paw where the bone and tendon were visible. The necropsy also revealed the dog had no body fat or muscle tissue and lacked any food or fecal matter in her intestinal track. The doctors estimated that it would have taken at least a month for the dog to reach its physical condition. Based on the investigative conclusion that Officer Brown intentionally failed to provide his Police Department search dog, Dynasty, with the daily care it needed to sustain its life resulting in the dog’s death from malnutrition, Officer Brown has been charged with two (2) felonies.

The specific charges files against Officer Brown are:
• 1 count Cruelty to Animals 3rd Degree Felony
• 1 count Offenses against Police Dogs 3rd Degree Felony

###

Contact: Ed Griffith 305-547-0535 02/28/08
School Employee Arrested in Fake Invoice Scam
- Profited From False Work Orders 

Miami (February 28, 2008) - A joint investigation by the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office and the Miami-Dade Schools Police Department has resulted in the arrest of Nilda Ramos, Acting Director of the Office of Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment (FF&E) with the Miami-Dade Public Schools District for her involvement in an invoice scam which allowed her, and her now deceased former boss, Will Lopez, to demand and receive payments from vendors who were solicited to submit false invoices to the School department to fund the payments. The Miami-Dade County Public Schools FF&E office is responsible for monitoring furniture moves from a school site to another location.

Nilda Ramos is charged with the following:

• Grand Theft - 2nd Degree Felony
• Unlawful Compensation - 2nd Degree Felony
• Official Misconduct - 2nd Degree Felony

In the Miami-Dade School System moving projects are awarded to pre-select qualifying moving companies on a rotational basis in order to equitably assign the contracts to qualifying moving companies. However, when the moving contract is under $8,000, no rotation is required. Additionally, when a moving company is awarded a contract to conduct a move, FF&E is required to supply an FF&E employee to act as a supervisor to monitor the project at the school site. If no supervisor from the FF&E office is available, a supervisor from Parsons Brinckerhoff Construction Services, Inc., (PB Americas), a contracted company will be provided. PB Americas is paid directly by the Miami-Dade County Public Schools. Some of the financial abuse occurred in this particular contract provision.

“This elaborate scam was a clear betrayal by trusted employees of the Public School System. Thankfully, a coordinated and detailed investigation by the Miami-Dade Schools Police Department and my prosecutors put an end to this scheme, “ commented State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. “I’m also glad that my prosecutors have been able to freeze some of these stolen assets in order help the School System get it’s money back.”

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 02/26/08
Clinical Psychologist Arrested for Manslaughter
- Victim had been his Patient

Miami (February 26, 2008) - Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernández Rundle will hold a press conference this afternoon to announce the arrest of a Miami clinical psychologist for Trafficking in Controlled Substances and Manslaughter.

The Press Conference will take place at 4:45 PM today in Room 418-S at the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office at the E.R. Graham Building located at 1350 N.W. 12^th Avenue in Miami.

Please arrive early enough to obtain security clearance through the building’s security review process.

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 02/20/08
Miami International Airport Fuel Scam Closes with Multiple Convictions
& Prison Sentences
- 5 Defendants Plead Guilty to Stealing Airport Fuel

Miami (February 20, 2008) - Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernández Rundle will hold a press conference this afternoon to announce the guilty pleas and sentences for the remaining 5 defendants involved in the highly publicized 2004 Miami International Airport Fuel Farm Scam dubbed Operation Flashpoint.

The Operation Flashpoint investigation revealed the theft by ASIG employees of at least 2.7 million gallons of jet fuel representing approximately $4 million dollars.

The Press Conference will take place at 3:00 PM today in Room 418-S at the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office at the E.R. Graham Building located at 1350 N.W. 12^th Avenue in Miami.

Please arrive early enough to obtain security clearance through the building’s security review process.

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 02/12/08
“DO FOR SELF” Empowerment Program a True Success
- Innovative Program's Second Seminar held in Miami Gardens

Miami (February 12, 2008) - On Saturday, February 2nd, the second “Do For Self” Empowerment Seminar hosted by the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office was held at the North Dade Regional Library in the City of Miami Gardens. The seminar was highly successful with 20 women in attendance, double the number who attended the initial seminar.

Presenters included Sonia Jacobson from Suited for Success, Martin and Antoinette Clark from One World Learning Center, and prosecutor Melba Pearson from the Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office.

Representatives from Health South provided the participants with valuable information regarding the importance of acquiring health insurance. Other topics discussed included how to select a child-care facility as well as tips for successful job interviews and for maintaining steady employment. At the close of the event, Shareeke Edmead from Commissioner Barbara Jordan's office addressed the women with strong words of encouragement.

Each participant will receive a dress suit courtesy of the non-profit organization Suited for Success.

Based on the overwhelming positive feedback received from the attendees, a follow-up seminar is already being planned for the month of September in the Overtown area. For signup and additional information, please call 305-636-2240.

###

Contact: Ed Griffith 305-547-0535 02/05/08
Miami-Dade Grand Jury to Release Report

Miami (February 5, 2008) - The Spring Term 2007 Miami-Dade County Grand Jury will end its term of service on Wednesday, February 6, 2008. The Grand Jury's findings and report will be released and discussed at a 3:15 p.m. press conference to be held on Wednesday, February 6, 2008 in Room 418-S at the Office of the State Attorney in the E. R. Graham Building located at 1350 NW 12^th Avenue, Miami.

At the conclusion of the press conference, the report will be made available via the Internet through the Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office website (http://www.miamisao.com).

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 01/09/08
"DO FOR SELF" Empowerment Program Comes to Miami Gardens
Innovative Program Created by the Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office

Miami (January 24, 2008) - Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle is proud to announce the second workshop of the "Do For Self" Empowerment Program. This new program is part of the State Attorney's Community Prosecution Program and is geared towards helping women learn the skills required to re-enter the workforce.

This one- day class will be held at the North Dade Regional Library located at 2455 N.W. 183rd Street in Miami Gardens on Saturday, February 2^nd, 2008 from 10:00-2:00 PM. The class will include career changing information conducted by prosecutors from the State Attorney's Office in conjunction with community partners Suited For Success, Oshu'n Movement, Embrace Girls, and Legal Services of Greater Miami.

The event, coordinated by Assistant State Attorney Melba Pearson, will include representatives from the corporate and banking industry. The women will receive vital financial information regarding credit and financial pitfalls, and tips on how to resolve on-the-job disputes and achieve success in the workplace. The attendees will be assisted with job placement opportunities and each participant will be outfitted with a suit and accessories by Suited for Success.

The first "Do For Self" seminar was held in September of last year and attended by 10 women. The seminar's sponsors include the Community Prosecution Unit of the State Attorney's Office, the Office of Miami-Dade County Commissioner Barbara J. Jordan, and The Embrace Girls Foundation.

Please call 305-636-2240 for more information.

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 01/22/08
Miami-Dade State Attorney Aiding New Habitat for Humanity Project
- 52 New Homes to be Built in the Scott-Carver Community

Miami (January 22, 2008) - Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle will present a check for $25,000 to Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami during the agency's celebration of their Hearts & Hands Blitz Build of 52 new homes this Saturday, January 26^th, 2008.

The donation was made possible with fines levied against defendants who were charged by the State Attorney's Office in several environmental and other white-collar type criminal cases.

The event is scheduled to begin at 2:00 PM at the Habitat Scott-Carver site located at NW 21st Court and 68th Terrace in Miami. Other event sponsors attending the celebration include local banking institutions, real estate agencies, government agencies, supermarkets, and houses of worship.

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 01/15/08
Miami-Dade State Attorney to Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Day
- 5000 Role Models to Receive Donation

Miami (January 15, 2008) - Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle will attend a celebration in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King's birthday on Monday, January 21^st.

The event, which is being held at Dr. Martin Luther King Park located on NW 62^nd Street and 32^nd Avenue in Model City, includes an early morning breakfast at Parrot Jungle Island at which the State Attorney will announce the establishment of a scholarship in memory of the late Dade County Public Schools Board Member Robert B. Ingram for the benefit of the 5000 Role Models organization. Following the breakfast, a parade that includes State Attorney. Fernandez Rundle as well as other community leaders and dignitaries will begin at NW 10th Avenue and 54^th Street at approximately 10:45 AM and ending at the park site.

In addition, the State Attorney's Office "Justice in Motion" (JIM) Mobile, a 37 foot "office on wheels", will be parked at the site to provide informational brochures on the various services and programs offered by the office and provide free child fingerprinting as well as a DNA tool for children accompanied by their parent/guardian for use by law enforcement personnel if ever necessary.

###

Contact: Terry Chavez 305-547-0535 01/10/08
Miami-Dade State Attorney to Join the Three Kings Parade
Annual Event on Calle Ocho

Miami (January 10, 2008) - Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle will participate in the Three Kings Day (Tres Reyes Magos) parade and festival this Sunday, January 13^th, on Calle Ocho.

The event, which is held annually and draws thousands, begins at 12 Noon at SW 8th Street and 4th Avenue and caravans up Calle Ocho to SW 22nd Avenue wherein the festival begins at 3:00 PM.

The State Attorney's Office "Justice in Motion" (JIM) Mobile, a 37 foot "office on wheels", will also take part in the parade alongside State Attorney Fernandez Rundle, who participates in the event every year.

###