November 2025

Officers of the Month

Officer Pedro Lao and Officer Anthony Roach

The North Miami Police Department’s “Officer of the Month” for November 2025 are Officer Pedro Lao, and Officer Anthony Roach. They are currently assigned to the Uniform Patrol Section, on the Midnight Shift. They are being recognized for their outstanding performance during the following incident:

On Friday, November 14, 2025, at approximately 0148 hours, Officers Pedro Lao and Anthony Roach responded to a call regarding a suspicious vehicle parked in a dark alleyway behind a residence. Upon arrival, they observed a black Nissan Altima with heavily tinted windows obstructing the alleyway, occupied by a male subject seated in the driver’s seat. When Officer Lao attempted to address the violation and conduct a safety check, the subject ignored all lawful verbal commands, started the vehicle, and attempted to flee.

The subject’s escape was immediately impeded by the officers’ clearly marked patrol vehicles. With activated emergency equipment. In a reckless attempt to evade police, the subject accelerated forward between two large trees, causing the vehicle to crash and become lodged. To prevent the suspect from reversing and creating further danger, Officer Roach approached from the rear of the vehicle. As he passed behind the bumper, the subject suddenly shifted into reverse, nearly striking Officer Roach, who was forced to take evasive action to avoid serious injury or death. The suspect then exited the vehicle and fled eastbound through the dark alleyway. Recognizing the escalating danger, Officer Lao requested additional units, while Officer Roach pursued the suspect across multiple residential properties and provided continuous radio updates. His actions allowed responding units to establish a coordinated three-block perimeter.

Miami-Dade Police Aviation Unit #12 responded to assist, along with the North Miami Police Canine Unit which conducted a systematic track, leading officers to the backyard of the 200 block of NW 134 Street, where aviation confirmed a heat signature. Officers located the suspect hiding behind a large bush. After multiple clear and lawful commands, the suspect complied and was taken into custody without further incident. Officers later discovered the suspect had removed most of his clothing in an attempt to avoid identification.

A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a loaded firearm with a round chambered and an additional loaded rifle magazine. A records check confirmed the suspect was a convicted felon. During the investigation, a resident reported the suspect had unlawfully entered her home moments earlier, walking into her bedroom before being chased out by her husband.

Officer Lao and Officer Roach demonstrated outstanding professionalism, sound tactics, and exceptional teamwork throughout this dangerous incident. Their swift and coordinated actions led to the safe apprehension of an armed felon, prevented further violence, and restored safety to the community.