Prestigious Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) Award… By Chief Fred Maas
The number “13” proved to be lucky for Sgt. Tom Hopkins of the Sunny Isles Beach Police Department on March 8, 2008. That is the total number of Sunny Isles Beach Police Department police personnel who have won the prestigious LEO award for our agency since the inception of the Awards program in 2000. Sgt. Hopkins was nominated for his 33 year law enforcement career of dedicated service. He was nominated in the Safety Category, specifically for his efforts on the anti-jaywalking campaign and the Homeless Assistance project he spearheaded.
More than 900 people attended this year’s gala which was held at the Miami Beach Convention Center. The event has grown dramatically since the year 2000 and recognizes the best of the best in specific categories and life saving events that occur in Miami-Dade County. Proceeds from the event go to the Police Officer Assistance Trust (POAT), the charity that helps officers and their families in time of emergencies or catastrophe.
In addition to Hopkins, K-9 Officer Rob Ostrov was a runner up in his category for specialized services. Ostrov is a well known expert handler in his field and is noted for his training and helpful attitude towards other agencies who elicit his help.
The City Commission, City Manager and many friends and guests were on hand to witness the Gala event that recognizes law enforcement in the community.
The number “13” proved to be lucky for Sgt. Tom Hopkins of the Sunny Isles Beach Police Department on March 8, 2008. That is the total number of Sunny Isles Beach Police Department police personnel who have won the prestigious LEO award for our agency since the inception of the Awards program in 2000. Sgt. Hopkins was nominated for his 33 year law enforcement career of dedicated service. He was nominated in the Safety Category, specifically for his efforts on the anti-jaywalking campaign and the Homeless Assistance project he spearheaded.
