May 2024 | Volume 5

Dear Friend,

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. During this time, we can shine a light on this issue and help to remove the stigma from prioritizing mental health care without guilt or shame. Everyone, no matter their age, ethnicity, religion, or socio-economic level, can feel the effects and impact of mental health issues. 

As individuals experience more pressure for a variety of reasons (work, economy, family issues, addiction), their mental health becomes more vulnerable. With the increased awareness of the importance of mental health services over the years, I have made sure that my office includes the issues of mental health in our Miami-Style Smart Justice approach to crime which has been crafted specifically for the needs and challenges of our community. 

According to the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI), in the U.S.:

•    almost 3 million adults in Florida have a mental health condition (that is more than six times the population of Miami)

•    and 19% of adults with mental illness also have a substance abuse issue

•    1 in 4 people with a serious mental illness has been arrested at some point in their lifetime leading to over 2 million jail bookings

•    about 2 in 5 adults in jail or prison have a history of mental illness

•    7 in 10 youths in the juvenile justice system have a mental health condition.

Being able to identify someone experiencing a mental health crisis or mental illness and connecting them to services keeps our community safe.

For low-level non-violent crimes, jail is not the best option. Here in Miami, we have various diversion programs and specialized courts. For example, a mental health court for misdemeanors and non-violent felony offenses; a drug court (which has become the model for the entire U.S.); and a veteran’s track to address the specific needs of those who have served in our armed forces. Some of them are dually diagnosed, with mental illness, and substance use issues.

Within hours of the arrest, our jail diversion program diverts those who suffer from mental health issues and are accused of non-violent crimes, from jail into treatment. The goal is to stop the repetitive cycle of arrest, incarceration, release, and re-arrest by providing them the opportunity to remain stable, safe and cared for. 

In 2023, our Mental Health jail diversion programs served 99 individuals facing non-violent felony charges, 82 facing misdemeanors and 26 facing misdemeanor domestic violence charges. As a result, 207 people benefitted from receiving treatment, not just simple incarceration. 

To my way of thinking, creating a synergy between law enforcement and treatment providers is the best way to move forward, and ensure public safety, is to create synergy between law enforcement and treatment providers to assist individuals with mental health issues. By working together, we have taken huge steps towards de-criminalized mental illness; improving public health and safety; helping officers address people in crisis more quickly, efficiently, and safely; and saving critical tax dollars.

Thank you and God Bless, 

IN THIS EDITION

State Attorney

Katherine Fernandez

Rundle

Human Trafficking

Awareness Campaign

State Attorney Receives

"Public Service Golden Age" Award

SAO Honored for Victim Support and Enhancing Community Safety

Tag Agency Clerk Arrested in $3 Million Title Fraud Scheme

SAO Program Spotlight: Second Chance Seal or Expunge

SAO Profile in Passion:

Luis E. Martinez

State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle, alongside Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Chairman of Board of County Commissioners Oliver G. Gilbert, III, Miami-Dade Police Department Director Stephanie V. Daniels and The Women's Fund Miami conducted a month-long Human Trafficking Awareness Campaign in conjunction with the Miami Grand Prix Formula 1 Event. 

In 2022, the first Grand Prix was held at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, and there was an influx of excitement, energy, and thousands of visitors in our vibrant city, prompting community leaders to commit their resources to preparing for the associated dangers, including human trafficking.

"While we are not suggesting that the scheduled Formula 1 events are solely responsible for increasing human trafficking in our community, we recognize that large international events attract visitors, and traffickers often follow tourism and money to such destinations. Each year, we strive to raise awareness about the dangers and signs of human trafficking to ensure that traffickers know they are not welcome in our city,” said State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle.

Campaign efforts included billboards and digital displays at key locations like the Miami International Airport and PortMiami, while mobile vans displayed local human trafficking hotline numbers countywide. "I would like to thank Richard D. Lara, General Counsel of Spanish Broadcasting System, and their media partners for their generosity in allowing us to use their outdoor billboard spaces for this awareness campaign. They have partnered with us for the past three years and have proven their commitment to ending this modern-day slavery," says State Attorney Fernandez Rundle.

“The success of these campaigns relies on community members, not only seeing the signage but also, staying vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity they encounter. During the span of our month-long campaign, we removed four traffickers from our streets, apprehended 43 individuals for crimes related to commercial sexual exploitation, recovered one firearm, and removed narcotics, ensuring a safer community for all," says the State Attorney.

The achievements of our Human Trafficking Task Force would not be possible without the eyes and ears of our residents and our participating law enforcement agencies, including the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, the Secret Service, the City of South Miami PD, the City of Miami PD, the City of Miami Springs PD, the City of Hialeah PD, the City of Coral Gables PD, the City of Medley PD, and the City of Miami Gardens PD.

State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle was honored to be selected by the Latino Center on Aging Board of Directors for this year's “Public Service Golden Age Award.” The Golden Age Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to elder Latino/Hispanic Communities through public policy initiatives, corporate contributions, and community involvement. 

“I am deeply honored to receive this award as it reflects the work of my remarkable team, whose commitment to preventing elder exploitation and abuse within our community goes beyond mere duty. Their dedication shines as a beacon of compassion and advocacy, ensuring the safety and dignity of our community members. Thank you to the LCA Board of Directors who have recognized this commitment and have chosen to honor the SAO with this prestigious award,” said State Attorney Fernandez Rundle.

Florida, with the highest population of elderly residents in the country, faces a concerning issue of predators exploiting individuals with medical or physical vulnerabilities. The advanced age of seniors makes them particularly vulnerable to financial exploitation, as monetary recovery becomes challenging.

In 2022, State Attorney Fernandez Rundle, Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Sen. Rene Garcia formed a joint public-private work group to fight Elder and Vulnerable Adult Exploitation and Abuse (EVA). The group aims to use best practices to foster cooperation among key stakeholders on issues and policy initiatives related to the abuse and neglect of elderly and vulnerable adults. 

State Attorney Fernandez Rundle prioritizes protecting our senior citizens. The Elder and Vulnerable Adult Exploitation Unit (EVA) is one of the first specialized state prosecution units in Florida and the nation dedicated to addressing financial crimes against the elderly. EVA works with various law enforcement agencies to ensure that elderly victims get the care and support they deserve. Unit staff includes an Assistant State Attorney, an Elder Victim Specialist, and multiple investigators.

EVA staff review Adult Protection Services referrals to police departments and collaborate with government and civic partners to provide community resources for senior citizens. Our Elder Victim Specialist helps elderly victims enact safety plans, file financial injunctions, and enforce criminal restitution orders.

The State Attorney has committed her team to combating this crime and spreading awareness in the community. This accolade showcases the SAO's commitment to ending elder abuse and fraud and motivates us to continue protecting our elderly. 

The fight against Elder and Vulnerable Adult Abuse is not over – if you suspect elder neglect, abuse, or exploitation, please report it to us at 786-804-6723. 

State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle, City of Doral Police Chief Edwin Lopez, City of Miami Police Chief Manuel Morales, the Miami-Dade Office of the Tax Collector, and the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle announce the arrest of 27-year-old Katherine M. Vera Moran.

Katherine M. Vera Moran is being charged with:



• 18 Counts Title Fraud -  3^rd Degree Felony

• 18 Counts Official Misconduct - 3^rd Degree Felony

On January 12, 2024, the City of Doral Police were dispatched to 5161 NW 79^th Ave regarding a stolen vehicle pinging inside the bay of a local auto shop. Detectives executed a search warrant upon arriving on the scene and located three stolen vehicles including a 2022 Lamborghini Urus, a 2023 Aston Martin DBS Superleggera, a 2021 Mercedes-Benz G550, and two fraudulent VIN plates. The owner of the garage was subsequently arrested for knowingly operating a Chop Shop.  

Following the shop owner’s arrest, law enforcement questioned his involvement in the Auto Theft Operation, leading to the discovery of Vera Mora’s role as a Tag Agency Clerk at Baumgardner Tag Agency, located at 1375 NW 36th ST, Miami, FL.

Vera Moran was paid an extra $800-$1,000 for each fraudulent title transaction, accepting cash or Cash App payments before forging the titles and tax documents on stolen vehicles. The investigation exposed Vera Moran's frequent manipulation of VINs associated with total loss vehicles, such as transferring a 2020 White Jeep Gladiator, deemed a total loss due to extensive fire damage, to a salvage rebuilt title appearing in perfect condition. 

Throughout the investigation, 18 vehicles were recovered and/or positively identified with altered VINS, twelve of which were confirmed to be stolen. The approximate total value of stolen vehicles recovered and identified was $3,385,000, all of which were processed by Vera Moran at Baumgardner Tag Agency. 

“The Doral Police Department has a zero tolerance for crime within our city, especially when it involves the utilization of your official position to defraud members of our community. Our team of detectives worked diligently with the State Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners to target, infiltrate, and dismantle a criminal enterprise, and I am grateful for their exemplary service,” stated Chief Edwin Lopez.

The State Attorney’s Office was recently honored by Senior Advisor Ivon Mesa with the Miami-Dade Corrections and Rehabilitation Department for supporting victims and enhancing community safety.

“I am truly so proud of my team, especially the Victim Advocates, as this accolade serves as a testament to their dedication to justice,” stated State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle.

“Victim advocates play a crucial role in the criminal justice system by providing essential support and resources to those who have experienced crime,” said State Attorney Fernandez Rundle. “They offer emotional support, guidance through the intricate legal system, and assistance with services. Their presence helps to foster a more compassionate and responsive justice system, ensuring that victims’ voices are heard. Through their tireless efforts, they safeguard our community and provide care to those facing adversity. It is never easy for victims to share their experiences. Still, I consider myself lucky to work alongside such amazing individuals who are compassionate and give hope to victims, allowing them to begin their healing journey.”

Victim Witness Specialists Tanya Gennusa and Lisa Simmons-Whyte represented the State Attorney at the event, graciously accepting the award, while Gun Violence Victim Specialist Rhonda Tice provided valuable information on SAO programs and services to attendees and corrections staff.

Please join us in congratulating our staff! 

Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle holds a monthly “Second Chance” Program Seal or Expunge Event offering residents who qualify the opportunity to have their criminal record sealed or expunged. This month, the transformative event was held at the Milander Center for Arts and Entertainment.

Since 2006, the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office has helped countless individuals overcome the barriers associated with past criminal records. By facilitating one-stop, “Second Chance” Program Seal or Expunge Events throughout the county, State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle offers resources and opportunities for county residents seeking to clear state-level, Miami-Dade County arrests from their records. This support enables community members to remove barriers and qualify for better housing, education, and job opportunities.

During this event, attendees can speak with representatives from the State Attorney’s Office about their arrest and receive assistance completing the required Florida Department of Law Enforcement application. Although the event is free, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement requires a $75.00 handling fee to be mailed in with the application.

With the help of the Miami-Dade Clerk of the Court and Comptroller and Miami-Dade Public Defender's Office, the State Attorney’s Office was able to assist 64 individuals this month, with 42 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, NAACP Miami-Dade Branch, and Miami-Dade College.

We look forward to bringing our "Second Chance" Event to North Miami next month! Be sure to follow us on social media for additional details.

Luis E. Martinez,

Investigator

Community Outreach Division

This month, we highlight a distinguished

member of our SAO family.

We present our SAO Profile in Passion -

Luis Martinez.

Visit our website | www.miamisao.com