"Sunny Isles Beach Officers Win Top Awards at Law Enforcement Gala."
By Chief Fred Maas

More than 600 people, including every member of the Sunny Isles Beach City Commission, attended the annual Law Enforcement Awards Gala on Saturday, February 20, 2004 at the Marriot Hotel on Brickell Avenue in Miami.

The fourth annual awards event featured nominees from more than 25 local police agencies in Dade County. The City of Sunny Isles Beach had four officers up for awards and three of them came away with trophies or medals. The event was hosted by the LEO Foundation and the Dade Chiefs of Police. The EMCEE for the Gala was Brian Andrews, popular newsman from Fox and Channel 7 locally. The proceeds benefited the Police Officer Assistant Trust (POAT) charity that helps officers and their families in times of emergency or critical need. A check in the amount $25,000 was presented to the POAT President and Assistant Director Steve Rothlein of the Miami-Dade Police Dept.

As for the Awards, Sunny Isles Beach Detective Stephen Brenton was the overall winner for Investigative Services. Brenton was recognized for his tireless efforts in handling many complex investigations over the past few years as well as his expertise in the area of computers, forensics and graphic displays all benefiting the Investigative Unit.

Officer Ken Hackett was the runner up in Specialized Services for his many years of dedication and professionalism while serving in the motorcycle unit.

Officer Javier Estevez and Blake Royal were presented the Medal of Valor Awarded by the Dade Chiefs of Police for their life saving ocean rescue of drowning victims over the past year. Both were runners-up for the Officer of the Year as Sergeant William Golding of the Miami Police Department took the top award for his efforts in the investigation and capture of the Allapattah serial rapist.

One of the most recognized facts once again was that the entire City Commission was in attendance to support their police department. It was a tribute to the City to witness the total support and rousing cheers when Sunny Isles Beach officers won. On behalf of those we serve and represent, I would like to congratulate all the nominees, the winners and every officer who wears the Sunny Isles badge because it is truly a team effort when one of our own is recognized. Congratulations!

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