FIRST RESPONDERS
FALLEN FIRST RESPONDERS
We honor the profound bravery, unwavering courage, and deep compassion of first responders who have made the ultimate sacrifice by losing their lives in the line of duty. These heroes have selflessly put the safety and well-being of others above their own, exemplifying the highest standards of service and dedication. In recognition of their noble sacrifice, we are committed to providing financial assistance to the families they leave behind, ensuring that their legacy of heroism is remembered and cherished. Through our support, we aim to offer some measure of comfort and stability to those enduring unimaginable loss, in honor of these fallen heroes' valor and selflessness.
Battalion Chief Kevin Fornash City of Oakland Park Fire Rescue End of Watch: April 9, 2026
Firefighter/Paramedic Steven Lepselter Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Fire Rescue End of Watch: April 5, 2026
Battalion Chief Terryson Jackson Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Fire Rescue End of Watch: August 28, 2023
Officer Charles Herring Pembroke Pines Police Department End of Watch: February 9, 2023
Sergeant Patrick Madison Coral Spring Police Department End of Watch: August 20, 2021
Officer Jennifer Sepot Fort Lauderdale Police Department End of Watch: August 14, 2021
Officer Horacio Dominguez Miccosukee Police Department End of Watch: February 21, 2021
Special Agent Laura Ann Schwartzenberger Federal Bureau of Investigation End of Watch: February 2, 2021
MEDAL OF VALOR HONOREES
TRIBUTE TO BRAVERY LUNCHEON & CEREMONY
An exceptional person gives of themselves selflessly and without hesitation. A hero puts their own life on the line, everyday, for total strangers . In honor of the daily sacrifices of Broward’s heroes, those first responders who protect and serve our communities, the Advisory Council presents its highest honor, the Medal of Valor Award, to these brave men and women in recognition of extraordinary acts of bravery.
Coconut Creek Police Department: Officers responded to a call involving a 15-year-old girl threatening to jump from the 7th floor of a parking garage at Seminole Casino Coconut Creek. Officer Matthew Rowles initiated communication from below while Sergeant Kennard Garvey and responding officers secured the scene. Certified crisis negotiators, Sergeant Jim Dingus and Officer Christian Salas, worked to keep her calm and build rapport. During the incident, the teen engaged with Officer Ethan Rodriguez, who was brought to the 7th floor at her request. Through continued communication and coordination, she agreed to step away from the ledge and was brought to safety.
Florida Highway Patrol: Trooper Brandon White has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to public safety on Broward County roadways, consistently placing himself in high-risk situations to protect others. Over the past year, he conducted nearly 200 crash investigations and made more than 1,500 arrests related to traffic offenses, while also recovering illegal firearms and locating missing juveniles, safely reuniting them with their families. Because of his relentless efforts and unwavering dedication, dangerous situations have been prevented, and the community is safer every day.
Coral Springs Police Department: For the past six years, Officer Hannah Rincon has served as the sole sworn officer assigned to the Community Involvement Unit in Coral Springs, a role that would typically require an entire team. She has led crime prevention efforts, community outreach, public safety education, and specialized programming for individuals with special needs. Despite operating with limited resources, she has strengthened these programs, reached more people, and created a lasting impact across the Coral Springs community. Her dedication and commitment to service reflect the kind of leadership that changes lives every single day.
Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue: Driver Engineer Alexander Pritchard responded to a residential structure fire where multiple occupants were trapped inside a smoke-filled home. As part of the initial entry team, he moved through zero visibility and heavy fire conditions after hearing cries for help from the rear of the residence. Inside, he located two victims, removing one to safety before re-entering the structure to assist in the rescue of a second individual. After both were brought out, he immediately began life-saving efforts before continuing to assist with fire suppression operations. His actions reflect extraordinary courage, decisive action, and an unwavering commitment to saving lives under extreme conditions.
Fort Lauderdale Police Department: Officer Robert Morris responded to a call involving a violent sexual battery where the suspect had just fled the scene. After locating an individual matching the description, the suspect attempted to flee, leading to a foot pursuit and physical confrontation. During the struggle, Officer Morris sustained a serious injury that rendered one of his arms unusable, yet he continued to fight as the suspect attempted to take his firearm. In a life-threatening moment, he used the necessary force to stop the attack and take the suspect into custody. Because of his actions, a dangerous individual was apprehended and prevented from causing further harm.
Hallandale Beach Police Department : Officer Victor Valdes Cento responded to a medical call involving a woman in active labor and arrived to find that the birth was already in progress. With no medical personnel on scene and no time to wait, he quickly assessed the situation and stepped in to assist. Remaining calm under pressure, he safely delivered the baby and ensured both mother and child were stable until Fire Rescue arrived. Because of his actions, a new life was safely brought into the world.
Hallandale Beach Police Department : Sergeant Josue Hernandez responded to a call involving a man in distress in the Intracoastal Waterway, approximately 100 feet from shore and actively struggling to stay above water. Recognizing the urgency, he entered the water without hesitation, placing himself at risk in a high-traffic channel with strong currents and limited visibility. As he worked to keep the individual afloat, Detective Omar Madonna entered the water to assist, and together they stabilized the man until additional resources arrived. Because of their actions, a life was saved and a potentially fatal situation was brought under control
Hillsboro Beach Police Department: Officers responded to a call involving a man in a mental health crisis who believed someone was attempting to break into his home and was armed with a crowbar. When they arrived, they found him at the front door, prepared to confront a perceived threat. Using a controlled approach and clear communication, the officers established a safe position and worked together to de-escalate the situation. Through their efforts, they were able to calmly convince him to put down the weapon and safely take him into custody. Because of their actions, a potentially dangerous situation was safely resolved, and the individual received the help he needed.
Hollywood Police Department: Officer Dana Doklean, alongside her K-9 partner Casey, developed and expanded the “Reading with Casey” program to serve all 27 elementary schools in Hollywood, creating a safe and supportive environment for students to build confidence and improve their reading skills. Through this program, she has connected with more than 10,000 students, helping foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the youth in the community. Beyond the classroom, Officer Doklean continues to support both the community and her fellow first responders through her work in peer support and crisis response. Because of her compassion and dedication, she is making a lasting impact on the lives of those she serves.
Lauderhill Police Department: Officer Thomas Yopps was stopped at a red light when his patrol vehicle was struck from behind. As he exited to assess the crash, the suspect suddenly accelerated, striking both Officer Yopps and a nearby witness. The suspect then turned the vehicle around and intentionally struck Officer Yopps again, dragging him and pinning him against a tree before attempting to strike him a third time. Despite sustaining critical, life-threatening injuries, Officer Yopps remained aware and was able to move himself out of the vehicle’s path just moments before another potentially fatal impact. His ability to act in that moment ultimately saved his life and allowed the suspect to be taken into custody.
Lighthouse Point Police Department: Detective Michael Tomasi led multiple high-impact investigations involving repeat and violent offenders, including residential burglaries, a violent robbery targeting elderly victims, and a complex fraud scheme. He identified and apprehended suspects who were actively committing crimes across multiple jurisdictions. In one case, his actions led to the arrest of a suspect targeting elderly victims, preventing further harm, and in another, he identified a repeat burglary offender who had recently been released from prison. Because of his efforts, multiple dangerous individuals were taken into custody, significant losses were recovered, and further harm to the community was prevented.
Margate Police Department: Officer Constantine Bouzakis responded to two separate life-threatening emergencies where his quick actions directly saved lives. In one incident, he arrived to find a seven-month-old infant choking and not breathing, and immediately administered back blows to clear the airway, allowing the baby to breathe again. In a separate incident, he responded to a gunshot victim and quickly applied a tourniquet, controlling the bleeding until Fire Rescue arrived. Medical personnel later confirmed that without his immediate actions, the victim would not have survived. Because of his ability to act quickly and effectively in critical moments, two lives were saved.
Miccosukee Tribe Police Department: Corporal Carlos Estrada responded to a rapidly spreading residential fire on the Miccosukee Reservation and arrived on scene within moments to find multiple homes already engulfed in flames. Without hesitation, he entered the burning residence and rescued three children, bringing them to safety before continuing to evacuate nearby homes as the fire spread to multiple structures. As additional units arrived, he took command of the scene, coordinating evacuations and ensuring the safety of the surrounding community. Because of his quick action and leadership, lives were saved and a devastating situation was brought under control.
Miramar Police Department: Detective Raul Gomez, Jr. has played a critical role in protecting the Miramar community through his relentless work targeting auto theft and the broader criminal networks behind it. Over the past year, he has helped recover numerous high-value stolen vehicles, while uncovering connections to organized burglary rings, fraud operations, and violent crimes. His investigative instincts have led to the disruption of a multi-county theft ring responsible for dozens of vehicle thefts and even the identification of suspects tied to serious offenses. Through his ability to connect the dots across cases, Detective Gomez has not only recovered property, but helped take dangerous criminals off the streets.
Pembroke Park Police Department: Detective Jose Sanchez led the investigation into the theft of two mobile teaching kitchens belonging to Feeding South Florida, equipment essential to providing nutrition education and meals to families across the community. Through persistent investigative work, he analyzed surveillance, developed leads, and coordinated with outside agencies to track the stolen property to another jurisdiction. His efforts ultimately led to the full recovery of the equipment, ensuring these critical resources could return to serving those in need. Because of his dedication, an essential community program was restored, continuing to support families and fight hunger across South Florida.
Pembroke Pines Police Department: Officer Michael Berger was first on scene to a severe crash where a driver had been ejected and was suffering from a catastrophic arm injury with life-threatening blood loss. Within moments, he took control of the scene and, staying calm under extreme pressure, applied a tourniquet to stop the bleeding and stabilize the victim. His quick, decisive actions gave emergency medical personnel the critical time needed to take over care and transport the victim for advanced treatment. Because of Officer Berger’s response, the victim was given a chance to survive an otherwise fatal situation.
Plantation Police Department: Officer Cole Barfield took decisive action in two separate life-threatening emergencies on the same day, helping save two lives. First, he responded to a 19-year-old who had collapsed on a baseball field and was not breathing, immediately beginning CPR and maintaining life-saving efforts until Fire Rescue arrived. Later that day, he responded to a man who had overdosed in a vehicle and quickly administered Narcan, restoring his breathing. In both moments, Officer Barfield remained calm, focused, and in control during critical situations. Because of his swift actions and commitment to others, two individuals were given a second chance at life.
Seminole Police Department : Lieutenant Edward Woodberry and Officer Juan Benitez responded to a critical situation involving a 15-year-old girl sitting on the edge of a parking garage, threatening to jump. Working alongside Coconut Creek Police, they spent hours patiently building trust, speaking with her calmly, and showing genuine care in a moment of crisis. Through small but meaningful gestures, including offering food and connecting with her over shared interests, they were able to slowly guide her away from the ledge and bring her to safety. Because of their compassion and persistence, a life was saved and a young girl was given the help she needed.
Sunrise Police Department: Sergeant Jeremy Copas demonstrated outstanding leadership and commitment to public safety through the creation and implementation of the School Zone Speed Enforcement Program in Sunrise. Recognizing the risks children face near busy roadways, he built a structured, citywide initiative designed to protect students during the most critical times of day. Through careful planning, coordination, and attention to detail, he ensured the program was effective, consistent, and focused on safety. Because of his leadership, school zones across Sunrise are safer, giving families greater peace of mind knowing their children are better protected each day.
Wilton Manors Police Department: Officer Stephen Angiolillo and Officer Nikkole Cox responded to a call involving a 17-year-old in crisis who had run away and was threatening to take his own life. After searching the area, they located him hiding in dense bushes near railroad tracks, holding a box cutter to his neck. With limited access and a rapidly escalating situation, both officers remained calm and continued speaking with him, building trust and urging him to stop. When the situation intensified, they acted quickly, persuading him to drop the weapon and safely took him into custody. Because of their patience, compassion, and decisive action, a young man’s life was saved and he was able to receive the help he needed.
Broward Sheriff’s Office – Oakland Park District: Deputy Khirye Allen and Deputy Manuel Smith responded to a call involving a woman in crisis who ran onto active railroad tracks as a Brightline train approached at full speed. With only seconds to act, both deputies rushed forward without hesitation and pulled her to safety just moments before the train passed. Because of their courage and immediate action, a life was saved in what would have otherwise been a tragic outcome.
Broward Sheriff’s Office – Oakland Park District: Sergeant Matt Patten and his team including Deputy David Bolderson, Deputy Leonard Brown, Deputy Casey-Lorraine Duke, Deputy Humberto Tapia, and Deputy Roberto Yudice, responded to a man in crisis who was actively harming himself inside a vehicle and suffering from severe, life-threatening injuries. With the situation rapidly escalating, Sergeant Patten quickly developed a plan to safely intervene. The quick-thinking deputies executed the plan, disarmed the individual, and removed him from the vehicle so emergency medical care could begin immediately. The individual survived and was given a chance at recovery.
Broward Sheriff’s Office - Criminal Investigations Unit: Detective Robert Pence played a critical role in locating and apprehending three escaped inmates who were armed, extremely violent, and had kidnapped an elderly rideshare driver. After identifying the suspects in Miramar, he made the decision to engage, executing a vehicle maneuver to stop their escape and pursuing a fleeing suspect on foot to take him into custody. Because of his actions, a hostage was safely rescued, dangerous criminals were taken off the streets, and a potentially deadly situation was brought under control.
Broward Sheriff’s Office – Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services – R17, E17, EMS17: The crews of R17, E17, and EMS17 responded to a drowning emergency involving a 3-year-old child and were met with a life-threatening situation upon arrival. Acting immediately, they worked together with precision and urgency, performing advanced life-saving measures and stabilizing the child under extreme pressure. Through their teamwork, clinical expertise, and unwavering focus, they were able to restore the child’s vital signs before transport. Because of their actions, a young life was saved and a family was given a second chance.
Broward Sheriff’s Office – Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services – Rescue 51: The crew of Rescue 51 responded to a drowning emergency where an adult male was actively submerged in a lake and not breathing. Without hesitation, and despite not having specialized water rescue equipment, they entered the water and brought the victim to shore. They immediately began advanced life-saving measures, working quickly and seamlessly to restore the patient’s breathing. Because of their courage, teamwork, and decisive action under extreme conditions, the victim regained respirations and was given a chance to survive.
Broward Sheriff’s Office – Paul Rein Facility: Deputy Germaine Sewell was off duty when he noticed two women urgently signaling for help and quickly learned that an elderly man had fallen from his vehicle, which was still in drive and rolling toward a busy intersection. Without hesitation, Deputy Sewell pursued the moving vehicle, ran alongside it, and jumped inside to bring it to a stop just moments before it could collide with a school bus. He then returned to assist the elderly man and remained with him until help arrived. Because of his quick thinking and selfless actions, a potentially devastating accident was prevented and lives were protected.
Broward Sheriff’s Office – Pompano Beach District: Deputies responded to a multi-vehicle rollover crash on Interstate 95 involving a vehicle that had overturned and become engulfed in flames, with occupants trapped inside. Upon arrival, they were met with an extremely dangerous scene as fire intensified and the victims were unable to escape. Without hesitation, they moved in, reaching into the burning vehicle and worked together to pull the occupants to safety. Faced with a rapidly evolving and hazardous situation, they placed the safety of others above their own, taking decisive action to prevent injury or any lives lost that day.