Attorney General James Uthmeier Announces 2024 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award Winner

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Release Date
May 21, 2025
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TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Attorney General James Uthmeier awarded the 2024 Attorney General's Law Enforcement Officer of the Year to Detective Robert Padron of the Sunrise Police Department. The 2024 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Ceremony honored the service of Detective Padron and 11 other brave officers who demonstrated great courage and selflessness while going above and beyond the call of duty last year. 

"I am proud to name Detective Robert Padron our 2024 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year," said Attorney General James Uthmeier. "Despite being wounded, Detective Padron risked his own life to stop a violent criminal. I am honored to recognize his service and exemplary courage under fire." 

The recognition stems from Detective Padron's heroic actions during the apprehension of a violent suspect involved in a domestic shooting. On December 30, 2023, a woman was ambushed and shot twice by her child's father in a brutal attack outside her apartment. The suspect fled the scene, prompting an intense search by Sunrise Police detectives. 

On January 2, 2024, detectives tracked the suspect to a bus terminal where he was attempting to flee the area. As officers moved in, the suspect drew a handgun and began to run. With innocent civilians nearby, Detective Padron courageously placed himself in harm's way to stop the threat. The suspect opened fire, striking Detective Padron in the upper leg. Despite his injuries, Detective Padron returned fire, neutralizing the suspect and preventing further harm to the public. 

Detective Padron's valor and quick action under fire exemplify the highest standards of law enforcement. Though he continues to recover from his injuries, his strength, resolve, and dedication to protecting others inspire his department and the state of Florida. 

Detective Padron has over 12 years of law enforcement experience, ten with the Sunrise Police Department. He is currently assigned to the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force. His exceptional service has earned him numerous honors, including the 2024 Officer of the Year, the Medal of Honor, and multiple commendations for leadership, marksmanship, and conduct. 

Other nominees for our 2024 Attorney General’s Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award include:

  • Captain Robert Bourque, Longboat Key Police Department;
  • Detective Mario Fajardo, Florida Department of Financial Services;
  • Master Detective Kyle Gaddie, Flagler County Sheriff’s Office;
  • Inspector Guy Hill, Florida Department of Law Enforcement;
  • Trooper David Kitchen, Florida Highway Patrol;
  • Agent Ron Minissali, Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office;
  • Detective Autumn Moore, Tallahassee Police Department;
  • Officer Anthony Moser, Miccosukee Police Department;
  • Officer Brian Pridgeon, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services;
  • Detective Derek Rivers, Lakeland Police Department; and
  • Officer Jacob Wild, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

All nominees for the Attorney General’s 2024 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award were previously named Officers of the Year by law enforcement agencies and associations.

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