5 Shocking Facts And Key Updates On The Hialeah Gardens Police Department
The Hialeah Gardens Police Department (HGPD) continues its mission to serve the City of Hialeah Gardens, Florida, though its operations have recently been under intense scrutiny following high-profile internal incidents. As of December 21, 2025, the department is actively focusing on reaffirming its commitment to the community while simultaneously navigating the fallout from a recent officer arrest that made headlines across South Florida.
Led by Chief Luis Diaz, the HGPD is dedicated to its core values, emphasizing transparency and community partnership as the foundation for maintaining a safe and secure environment. This article provides a deep dive into the department's structure, its recent challenges, and the key programs designed to build trust with the residents of this bustling Miami-Dade County municipality.
The Leadership and Operational Structure of HGPD
The Hialeah Gardens Police Department operates out of its main facility at 10301 NW 87 Avenue, serving the residents and businesses within the City of Hialeah Gardens. The department is structured to cover a wide range of public safety needs, from routine patrol to specialized administrative functions.
Key Personnel and Contact Information
- Chief of Police: Luis Diaz
- Headquarters Address: 10301 NW 87 Avenue, Hialeah Gardens, Florida 33016
- Non-Emergency Phone: (305) 558-3333
- Civilian Command: Kaya Ates (Civilian Commander)
- Administrative Contact: Manuel Zardon (Email contact for the Chief's Office)
Core Divisions and Services
The HGPD is divided into several key operational units designed to maximize efficiency and community engagement. These divisions ensure that the department adheres to both state and local standards set by bodies like the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Miami-Dade County Police Department.
- Patrol Division: The backbone of the department, responsible for 24/7 emergency response, traffic enforcement, and proactive Community Policing initiatives.
- Records Bureau: Manages all public records requests, incident reports, and official documentation, ensuring compliance with Florida's public records laws.
- Public Services: Handles administrative support, civilian inquiries, and coordination of non-emergency services for residents.
- Accreditation Manager: Responsible for maintaining professional standards and ensuring the department meets established best practices.
The Shocking Arrest of Officer Leonardo Carbo: What We Know
In a significant and disturbing development that challenged the department's integrity, a Hialeah Gardens officer was recently arrested on serious felony charges. This incident sparked extensive media coverage and prompted a strong response from the department's leadership, underscoring the challenges of maintaining internal accountability.
The Arrest Details. Officer Leonardo Carbo, a 30-year-old member of the Hialeah Gardens Police Department, was taken into custody following an investigation that began in September. The charges against Carbo are grave, including credit card fraud and grand theft.
Pawning Service Weapons. One of the most alarming aspects of the case reported by news outlets was the allegation that Officer Carbo had illegally pawned his service weapons. This act represents a serious breach of protocol and public trust, raising immediate concerns about the oversight and inventory of departmental equipment.
Investigation and Fallout. The investigation was triggered when a colleague of Carbo's noticed unauthorized transactions. The arrest highlights the department's stated commitment to addressing internal misconduct swiftly, even when it involves one of its own. The case is now being handled by the Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office, and the outcome will be closely watched by the community and other South Florida law enforcement agencies.
HGPD’s Renewed Focus on Community Partnership and Youth Programs
In the wake of internal challenges, the Hialeah Gardens Police Department has doubled down on its public outreach and Community Policing philosophy. Their mission statement clearly outlines a commitment to partnering with the community to promote a safe and secure environment.
Key Community Initiatives
The HGPD understands that a strong relationship with the City of Hialeah Gardens residents is crucial for effective crime prevention. Several initiatives are in place to bridge the gap between officers and the public:
- Community Policing: This is the department's core strategy, emphasizing proactive problem-solving and collaboration with citizens to address local crime problems and quality-of-life issues.
- Youth Programs: The department actively sponsors and participates in Youth Programs aimed at mentoring young people, providing positive interactions with law enforcement, and steering them away from criminal activity.
- Public Safety Information: The department's website provides helpful information on various services, including links to resources like the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and the Sexual Offenders and Predators Search registries.
The Importance of Citizen Feedback
The department actively encourages residents to submit citizen concerns to help officers tackle crime problems in their area. This feedback loop is essential for the HGPD to allocate resources effectively and respond to the specific needs of different neighborhoods within Hialeah Gardens.
The HGPD’s ongoing efforts demonstrate a clear commitment to transparency and service, even as it manages the complexity of internal investigations. For residents seeking public services or needing to file an official report, the Records Bureau and Public Services staff are available during standard business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
The department, under Chief Diaz, continues to strive for excellence, balancing the necessity of rigorous internal accountability with the vital work of protecting the community and upholding the law in Miami-Dade County.
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