The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office (MDSO) is pleased to announce that Deputy Josue J. Acevedo and Wellness Program Facility Manager Kelly J. Kennedy have been awarded the agency’s deputy and civilian employee year award. MDSO is also proud to recognize Captain Andy L. Valdes with a lifesaving award.
Deputy Josue J. Acevedo of the Organized Crimes Bureau as the Distinguished Deputy of the Year for 2025 for his heroic lifesaving actions. On September 5, 2025, Deputy Acevedo responded to a submerged vehicle in a canal, immediately entered the water, and worked alongside two civilians and fellow deputies to rescue an unresponsive driver. Their coordinated efforts saved the driver’s life before Miami-Dade Fire Rescue arrived. The award highlights Deputy Acevedo’s bravery, quick action, and commitment to public safety.
Wellness Program Facility Manager Kelly J. Kennedy as the Distinguished Civilian of the Year for 2025. Since joining the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Training Center in 1999, Ms. Kennedy has become a nationally recognized expert in law enforcement fitness training, holding a master’s degree in Exercise Physiology and a PhD in Global Leadership. She has played a key role in advancing employee wellness at MDSO, most notably by leading the expansion of the Resilient Blue Program into the new Five Star Wellness initiative, which promotes emotional, physical, financial, social, and leadership wellbeing across the agency. Her innovative leadership and long-standing commitment to improving officer and employee readiness have made a lasting impact on the department.
On Thursday, December 11, 2025, Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Bureau Captain Andy L. Valdes rendered lifesaving aid while off-duty at Miami International Airport.
While aboard an aircraft parked at the ramp, Captain Valdes responded when the pilot became unresponsive in the cockpit. He immediately assessed the pilot, found no pulse, and directed CPR and AED use until additional medical assistance arrived. Captain Valdes continued chest compressions alongside responding personnel until the pilot was transferred to Fire Rescue care.
The pilot was transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he recovered.
Captain Valdes’ swift action, leadership, and composure were instrumental in saving a life and exemplify the professionalism and commitment to public service of the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office.
Please join us on this special day honoring the nominees.