Miami Lakes Fundraiser Nets 50K For Slain Officers' Families
MIAMI (CBS4) -Miami-Dade Police Director James Loftus put his arms around a woman, hugged her, kissed her cheek and said "thank you" after she dropped off a donation Tuesday for the families of murdered police officers Roger Castillo and Amanda Haworth.
A fundraiser for the officers was held in a shopping center parking lot by the Palmetto Expressway at Ludlam Road, not for from cemetery where the fallen officers were laid to rest Monday.
"They put their lives on the line for us every day," said Stephanie Saenz of Miami Gardens. "The least I can do is give a little and give back."
The event was promoted by Clear Channel Communications' seven South Florida radio Stations.
"What we're asking people to do is find it in their hearts to give a little, to help," said Mike Mobile, a promoter for Clear Channel.
Police officers joined citizens in turning out to contribute.
"This could have easily been me or any other officer," said Officer Adam Shahan of the Miami-Dade force. "Everybody here has children and we just feel it's the right thing to do."
Publix employee Andrew Dyke made a cash contribution.
"The police do so much for us," said Dyke. "I thought I'd drop off a little change and hope it helps out."
Officers Castillo and Haworth were shot and killed last Thursday as they tried to arrest a murder suspect in Liberty City. Castillo leaves a wife and three children behind. Haworth is survived by her 13 year-old son.
Both families will receive several hundred thousand dollars in death benefits from the county and federal government because the officers were killed in the line of duty. In addition, each officer's family will receive a minimum life insurance payment of a year's salary. Florida International University has promised scholarships to all of the children.
Police Director Loftus said Tuesday's fundraiser wasn't "so much about money" but about "bringing people, bringing the community together."
Loftus said he was impressed and inspired by the breadth of the outpouring.
"There are people coming with $500 checks, and there's a homeless guy who came here with some change," Loftus said.
Det. Rebeca Perez said her heart ached for the fallen officers' children.
"No amount of money, nothing will bring their Mommy and Daddy back," She said.
By about 10 p.m. the fundraiser had generated an estimated $50,000 in cash and checks.
The Dade County Police Benevolent Association's Love Fund, which helps families of officers who either have been killed in the line of duty or have loved ones in crisis, is also accepting donations on behalf of Castillo and Haworth.
If you would like to help, please make your checks payable to The Dade County PBA Love Fund, with officers Castillo and Haworth names written in the memo section of the check. Donations should be mailed to 10680 NW 25 Street, Miami, FL 33172.
