About Lauderhill

Located in the heart of Broward County, the City of Lauderhill is home to nearly 75,000 residents and a growing number of bustling businesses that help drive the region’s economy. Known for its diverse cultural richness and welcoming community, this All-American City is less than 10 miles from South Florida’s world-famous beaches. The city proudly holds the title of the “cricket capital” of the United States, thanks to Central Broward Regional Park Stadium—the first U.S. cricket ground certified by the International Cricket Council (ICC) to host international matches. This landmark venue has become a hub for cricket in North America, drawing major international events and helping to grow the sport’s popularity across the region. The city is also popular for arts and recreation, featuring signature destinations like Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, Lauderhill Historical Museum, Lauderhill Golf Course and several scenic parks with picturesque trails. With a strong focus on people, progress and sustainability, Lauderhill continues to be a vibrant place for everyone under the sun.

LPD Claims Two Awards

Post Date:12/17/2020 10:23 AM

Under the leadership of Lauderhill Police Chief Constance Stanley, Crime Scene Supervisor Rachel Varela was designated the Civilian of the Year and Officer Samuel Ramos was awarded the Officer of the Year. Congratulations to these very special employees! #LauderhillProud

Rachel varela holding certificate and award beside chief Stanley Officer Ramos and chief Stanley with certificate and award indoors beside Lauderhill police department podium

THE STORY BEHIND THE WINNERS

Rachel Varela was nominated by no less than five detectives that she works with on a consistent basis. These detectives described numerous incidents where Rachel's attention to detail and dedication was a major factor in the clearing and solving their cases. Here is just a sampling of those cases.

  • Rachel responded to the scene of a homicide where she functioned as the sole Crime Scene Investigator. She single-handedly processed the scene for countless hours where the victim had been shot in the abdomen and she was able to identify and collect valuable pieces of evidence. In all, 90 pieces of evidence were collected which led to seven subjects being charged with murder. During the trial of one of the defendants, Rachel provided five hours of detailed testimony which was later praised by the Assistant State Attorney and resulted in a Murder conviction.
  • Another detective recalled an incident where Rachel effectively conducted a search warrant of a vehicle in the pouring rain. This was all completed professionally and with a positive attitude.
  • A newly assigned detective found that Rachel was always willing to take time out of her busy day to assist, mentor, and train him on such things as latent fingerprints and DNA. She would always do this with a smile and go out of her way with never thinking twice about it.
  • Even with a very high case load, Rachel has proven to be able to handle not just homicides but lower-level property crimes as well, such as Burglaries, Auto Thefts, and Frauds.

These accomplishments are just a peek into some of what Crime Scene Supervisor Rachel Varela completes on a daily basis.

Officer Samuel Ramos’ Recommendation Letter from Major Robert A. Parmelee:

I would like to take this opportunity to recommend Officer Samuel Ramos as the Lauderhill Police Department's Officer of the Year. On October 18, 2019 while on his way home, Officer Ramos stopped at a 7-11 in Coral Springs and was made aware of a juvenile that was stabbed. Officer Ramos remained calm and utilized his radio to summon the assistance of the Coral Springs Police Department. Officer Ramos then utilized his training to begin lifesaving measures on the injured juvenile including attempts to stop the bleeding and keeping pressure on the wound. Officer Ramos selflessly went out of his way to assist and waited for Coral Springs officers and paramedics to arrive. This is a shining example of service to the community and protection of others and Officer Ramos should be recognized for his service.

-Major Robert A. Parmelee

Thank you both for you invaluable service!

Return to full list >>