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Congratulations to Officer Thiago Falcao, recipient of the City of Coral Gables “Officer of the Month,” for the month of September 2025.
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Officer Thiago Falcao displayed extraordinary determination and professionalism in leading a complex investigation into a May 21, 2025, hit-and-run crash that left two Coral Gables residents with serious injuries. The suspect fled after striking the victims with a black Mercedes-Benz, leaving no immediate leads.
Responding to the scene, Officer Falcao interviewed witnesses who described the driver and vehicle. He then utilized ALPR and intelligence center resources to match the witness description to video evidence, identifying the suspect vehicle and its occupants. Through diligent follow-up with the registered owner and associates, he uncovered connections leading to the eventual suspect.
Officer Falcao secured a cell-site warrant that placed the suspect in the crash area at the time of the incident, coordinated BOLOs, and worked with Miami-Dade and Broward agencies to track the vehicle’s movements. His innovative use of SunPass, ALPR, and commercial ALPR databases revealed that the vehicle was frequenting an apartment complex in Sunny Isles Beach. Partnering with Sunny Isles Beach Police, he confirmed the vehicle’s location and damage consistent with the hit-and-run.
Officer Falcao obtained and executed multiple search warrants, ensuring proper seizure and preservation of the vehicle and critical evidence. He then re-engaged reluctant family members, conducted post-Miranda interviews, and leveraged those interactions to arrange a meeting with the suspect at a Little Caesar’s Pizza. After coordinating surveillance with CGPD and MDSO detectives, Officer Falcao personally arrested the driver. A search incident to arrest revealed narcotics and paraphernalia in the suspect’s possession.
Officer Falcao demonstrated extraordinary tenacity, dedication, and professionalism. His investigative and interrogation skills, alo...
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