South Florida Police Benevolent Association

When danger appeared, Deputy Leonard Cantave didn’t hesitate.

While responding to a crash on his way to work, the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office deputy placed himself between oncoming traffic and stranded motorists. Moments later, seeing a vehicle speeding toward the scene, he made a split-second decision that saved a fellow officer’s life. Deputy Cantave was struck by the vehicle and suffered catastrophic injuries.

For his extraordinary courage, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to others, Deputy Leonard Cantave was named the 2025 South Florida PBA Police Officer of the Year.

Watch his incredible story.

Detective Gedeus Frederick of the North Miami Police Department is the runner-up for the 2025 South Florida PBA Police Officer of the Year Award.

His investigative expertise and swift coordination with multiple agencies led to the safe recovery of a 15-year-old girl who had been groomed online and lured onto a train in a suspected human trafficking scheme.

Watch Detective Frederick share the story behind the case and the teamwork that brought the victim home safely.

Congratulations to Officer Jorge Valdes of the Homestead Police Department on receiving the Rookie of the Year Award

In just his first year of service, Officer Valdes has demonstrated outstanding professionalism, dedication, and commitment to protecting the community. His proactive police work, leadership, and strong work ethic have already made a meaningful impact.

Thank you for your service and congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!

Congratulations to Communications Employee of the Year, Priscilla Gomez of the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office.

From overcoming challenges during training to handling critical incidents with professionalism and composure, Priscilla has demonstrated the dedication, resilience, and excellence that define the very best in public safety communications.

Watch her story and join us in celebrating this well-deserved recognition.

Through relentless determination, meticulous investigative work, and an unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable, Deputy Chelsea Rodriguez helped bring a dangerous offender to justice.

Her extensive investigation into the possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material resulted in the arrest of a suspect facing 25 felony charges and the removal of a threat to countless innocent victims.

Watch her story and join us in congratulating Deputy Chelsea Rodriguez of the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, recipient of the 2026 Arthur E. Felton Investigative Excellence Award. 💙

Deputy Bianchi Gonzalez played a critical role in securing a murder conviction following a complex four-year investigation. Her meticulous forensic analysis, professionalism, and commitment to justice exemplify the very best of investigative excellence.

Watch her story and join us in congratulating Deputy Gonzalez, runner-up for the 2026 Arthur E. Felton Investigative Excellence Award.

Without hesitation, Deputy Josue Acevedo entered the water to save a life. His courage, quick action, and selfless commitment during a life-threatening emergency embody the true meaning of service above self.

Congratulations to Deputy Acevedo of the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, recipient of the 2026 Lifesaver Award. 💙

This Memorial Day, we honor the heroes who gave their lives in service to our nation.

The South Florida PBA joins our community in remembrance and gratitude, while standing behind our law enforcement officers who continue to serve with dedication and pride.

Nearly 20 years of service. A career defined by dedication. A moment that saved a life.

Corporal Milo Mahomes Jr. of the Miami-Dade Corrections and Rehabilitation Department is our 2026 Correctional Officer of the Year.

Watch his story and join us in congratulating Corporal Mahomes on this well-deserved recognition. 💙