April 2025

Officers of the Month

Officer Kenyon Turner and Officer Mario Peña

The North Miami Police Department’s “Officer of the Month” for April 2025 are Officer Kenyon Turner and Officer Mario Peña. They are currently assigned to the Midnight Shift Uniform Patrol Section. They are being recognized for their outstanding performance during the following incident:

I would like to recognize and commend Officer Kenyon Turner and Officer Mario Peña, for their extraordinary courage, professionalism, and decisive action during a critical incident on April 12, 2025, at 13700 NE 6 Avenue in North Miami. 

At approximately 1:05am, multiple 911 calls were received reporting shots fired at the apartment complex, Officer Turner was the first to arrive, and as he approached a scene filled with uncertainty and danger, he observed a black male standing in front of the building. As he attempted to engage the individual, the subject abruptly turned and began walking away. When given lawful commands to stop, the subject refused and suddenly began to flee on foot.

Without hesitation, Officer Turner initiated a foot pursuit, taking command of the unfolding incident. While chasing the suspect, he issued a BOLO over the police municipal radio, delivering a detailed description and direction of travel. During the pursuit, Officer Turner also observed the subject reaching toward his waistband, suggesting the possible presence of a weapon. Officer Turner's swift response and critical communication enabled responding officers to saturate the area quickly. 

Acting on the BOLO information provided, Officer Peña located the suspect within moments of arriving. Maintaining a safe and tactical approach, Officer Peña issued loud, clear verbal commands. The suspect complied, and Officer Peña detained him without incident near NE 136 Street, between NE 6 Avenue and NE 5 Avenue, eliminating any immediate threat to the community. After securing the subject, Officer Peña conducted a meticulous canvass of the area. Retracing the suspect's path, they searched the immediate area with precision. Their efforts led to the recovery of a semi-automatic firearm discarded in a dumpster behind 13630 NE 6 Avenue, directly along the route the suspect had fled. 

Although no injuries were reported, the danger was undeniable. One apartment, occupied by four people, was struck by four rounds that pierced the front window. One round came dangerously close to striking a resident seated in the living room, demonstrating the life-threatening nature of the incident. Further investigation revealed that the detained subject had exchanged gunfire with another individual. Both suspects later provided full confessions and were arrested for their involvement in the shooting. 

Thanks to the bravery, skill, and relentless determination of Officer Turner and Officer Peña, two armed individuals were taken off the streets, a dangerous weapon was recovered, and a violent confrontation was brought to a swift and safe resolution. Their actions exemplify the highest standards of law enforcement and reflect the Core Values of the North Miami Police Department. Their professionalism and dedication made an undeniable impact in restoring order, protecting lives, and reinforcing public trust. In every sense, they embodied our Department's Motto by Making a Positive Impact in the community they serve.