Watch CBS News

Miami-Dade PD Introduces New Asst. Director

Follow CBSMIAMI.COM: Facebook | Twitter

MIAMI (CBSMiami) – There was a standing ovation for Miami-Dade Police Department's Assistant Director Stephanie Daniels at a county commissioners' meeting Tuesday morning.

She's the first African-American woman to reach that rank.

Miami-Dade Police Director Juan Perez introduced Daniels who addressed the crowd with her family by her side.

"This honor is not mine alone. It is the product of four core values that have been taught to me during my time in our community," said Daniels.

She joined Miami-Dade Police in 1992 and got a number of promotions in her 24 years even skipping some ranks to get to where she is now.

"I didn't think I would have the opportunity to skip the rank of chief to become an assistant director. I believe I had the attributes to do it but I didn't think I would have that time, in this day and age to skip that rank," said Daniels.

Daniels who grew up in Liberty City - one of seven siblings - addressed the conflict that is plaguing the community following several deadly police-involved shootings in other parts of the country.

"I represent that black community and I represent law enforcement so I'm able to sit on both sides or speak to both sides," said Daniels. "I could speak to the black community and give them the perspective from the police side and let them know exactly how we are and that their perception of the police is not always accurate."

Daniels says to change that perception some work must be done.

"Our communication on both sides need to improve and I can tell you Miami-Dade Police Department is working on doing just that," said Daniels.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.