First, the role that leadership plays in shaping the culture and success of a law enforcement agency must be acknowledged. A strong leader sets the tone, establishes values, and creates an environment where employees can thrive. Unfortunately, many of us have experienced the consequences of ineffective leadership resulting in toxic work environments, low morale, and a lack of transparency and accountability. I say, it is time for new leadership; it is time for change!

A candidate from the “outside” with vast experiences is the best thing that could happen to the MDPD moving forward as the Miami-Dade County Sheriff’s Office. Many conversations have taken place regarding problems with the administration (past and present), low morale, overtime issues, and unsafe work environment, just to name a few. Many candidates vying for the Sheriff’s title are the same officers who held high ranking positions in the MDPD for many years. They did not make necessary changes when they had the opportunity. Why should the Miami Dade County Citizens trust them to make changes now?

As the “outsider” who owes favors to no one, making the necessary changes after completion of an audit will not be an issue for me. If that worries people in the department, then, they are part of the problems, and they will be the loudest to campaign against me; as I have already detected some doing.

I, Ruamen Delarua, bring significant experiences (26 years) from a Sheriff’s Office and (14+ years) currently serving as a City of Miami police officer, collaborating with my peers in today’s policing conditions. Take comfort knowing that a swift and smooth transition will be made by using my 40+ years of combined experiences always leading the way. I pledge that I want what is best for the employees, the law enforcement officers and the citizens of our county.

Electing someone from the outside is your opportunity to breathe new life into what will be the new Miami-Dade County Sheriff’s Office. Now is the time for fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a willingness to challenge the status quo from a candidate who wants unity for all employees, law enforcement officers and the citizens alike. Such a leader can invigorate the workforce, inject enthusiasm, and create a culture of growth and development like the MDPD has never experienced before. When you welcome someone from the outside who does not owe any favors to anyone, the foundation of transparency is at once laid. This is how leadership fosters trust, encourages open communication, and ensures that decisions are made, always with integrity at the forefront. If you have transparency, you can all feel confident that your voices will be heard and that your concerns will be addressed.

Accountability is equally important. A leader who holds themselves and others accountable for their actions fosters a culture of responsibility and fairness. When expectations are clear, and everyone is held to the same standard, we create an environment where hard work and dedication are recognized and rewarded. It is through accountability that we can build a brotherhood and sisterhood that is committed to excellence. Furthermore, new leadership presents an opportunity for growth and development. Welcoming a leader who not only values your skills and experience, but also encourages you to expand on your capabilities.

Miami-Dade County deserves a leader who understands the importance of serving the community. A leader who recognizes that our organization is not just a business, but a part of a greater whole. By engaging with the community and giving back, we can create a positive impact and prove that we are not just here to make a profit, but to make an indelible difference. The time for new leadership is now. The need for new leadership that will create a better work environment, boost morale, and foster transparency, accountability, and opportunity should not be taken lightly. I ask that you consider all options and make the best choice based on your experience. Together, we will achieve greatness.

· Bachelors | 08/2006 – 08/2011 | St. Leo University

· Associates | 02/2008 – 12/2010 | St. Leo University

· Command Officer Management School Graduate | 2005 – 2006 | St. Leo University

· Middle Management Course | 1995 | Central Florida Community College

· Line Supervision Course | 1989 | Central Florida Community College

· F.D.L.E. Cert Basic Law Enforcement 810 Hours BLE 98 | 1984 - 1985 | Miami Dade Community College

· P.S.A. Academy 13 |1982 – 1983 | Miami Dade Community College

Florida Department of Law Enforcement (F.D.L.E.) Certifications:

· Police Officer

· Firearm Instructor

· K-9 Team Trainer, Instructor, Evaluator

· Defensive Tactics Instructor

· Field Training Officer (FTO)

· Police Motorcycle Instructor

· Radar/Laser Instructor

· Driving Instructor

Institute of Police Technology and Management (I.P.T.M.) Certifications:

· Drug Interdiction Enforcement

· Management of the K-9 Unit

· Motorcycle Course

· Criminal Patrol Drug Enforcement

Other Certifications:

· Administration, Management & Supervision of the Field Training Officer Program

· Case Preparation and Court Presentation

· CMS General Instructor Transition

· CPR Certified

· FEMA - ICS 100, 139, 200, 230B, 235B, 240A, 241A, 242A, 244A, G300, G400, 700, 704, 800

· Human Diversity Course

· Instructor Techniques

· K-9 Team Certification

· Mandatory Elderly Abuse

· M26 Advanced & Taser X26

· PPCT Impact Weapons System

· Radar/Laser Operations Course

· Secondary Screener Radiation Isotope Identifier Device PER-245

· Successfully Coping with Stress and Conflict Resolution

· WMD Incident Command Course (Cobra 24 hours)