Diversity is an important tool to maintain an open and inviting environment, and to make sure every citizen is treated fairly. This was the theme of the introduction of two new reserve officers to the Homestead Police Department, during the Special Council Presentation on April 22. Mayor Jeff Porter proudly welcomed Raul Rodriguez and Mohamad Osman to the force.
“The swearing in of these men today comes to show the importance of having officers from different backgrounds. Here in Homestead, we have a very diverse population, which is why it’s our job to make sure they are all represented,” said Mayor Jeff Porter. “Our new reserve officers have the cultural richness needed to understand and reach out to more people, in more than one language. We’re extremely proud to have you in our Police Department. Congratulations.”
Following the preliminary speeches, the recruits partook in a swearing in ceremony led by City Clerk Elizabeth Sewell, thus officially becoming reserve officers for the City of Homestead Police Department.
Raul Rodriguez, a bilingual Miami native, moved to Homestead in 1998. Rodriguez’ goal is to become a full time police officer with the City of Homestead, so he put himself through the Police Academy from January 2014 to November 2014, while working his full time job as a police dispatcher. He was appointed the Lieutenant of his class and was awarded the PIG Award for Pride, Integrity and Guts. He married his wife Jessica in 2009 and they have a five year old son and a two year old daughter. She was honored to pin the badge on her husband during the presentation.
Mohamad Osman was born in Chicago, IL and raised in Romania. He speaks English, Spanish and Arabic. Osman is a Sergeant with the Florida Department of Corrections, where he’s been employed for the past five years. He has an Associate of Arts Degree and is attending FIU majoring in Political Science/International Relations/Middle Eastern Studies and has a National Security Studies Certificate. With him to pin the badge was his girlfriend, Renelle Hughes.
To close the ceremony, Captain Marie Kent proudly said “Remember to be proud of the uniform you wear, the department you represent and the trust and integrity that is expected by wearing the badge.”
