October 2026

Dear Friend,



October is the national awareness month for both breast cancer and domestic violence. Both issues are import to me, personally and professionally. 

As you may know, my mother and sister passed away from breast cancer. Over the years, many friends and members of our SAO family have been diagnosed with this disease. While I continue to mourn those who passed, I am grateful that the most survived thanks to incredible advances in early detection and new treatments.

Vulnerable women are more likely to experience domestic violence than others. According to the National Institutes of Health, women with cancer experience domestic violence at double the rate of women without cancer. One survey found that nearly 25% of cancer patients reported acts of psychological or physical abuse from partners during their cancer journey. A breast cancer diagnosis can place women in a more vulnerable position for intimate partner violence (IPV).

Several factors contribute to the intersection of breast cancer and domestic violence:

• Relationship stress: cancer diagnoses can intensify anger or aggression in partners, leading to increased psychological or sexual violence;
• Sexual function changes: post-mastectomy or treatment-related changes can increase the risk of sexual violence within relationships;
• Economic dependence: the financial burden of treatment may tie patients to abusive partners, limiting their ability to leave;
• Social isolation: increased reliance on partners for daily support can exacerbate power imbalances and abuse risk; and
• Health neglect: IPV survivors may delay or avoid cancer screenings and treatment due to trauma or fear, worsening health outcomes.

Women with disabilities, including those with breast cancer, have a 40% higher likelihood of experiencing IPV compared to non-disabled women.

It is crucial that women know that they are not alone and that there are resources to help them.

I am very proud to say that my office has a model domestic violence unit that is victim centered and trauma informed. I started this unit many years ago when I saw what victims of domestic violence had to face when they were seeking resolutions in the criminal justice system.

There was so much that was not understood, women’s perspectives and opinions weren’t given the proper importance and urgency. Now we have dedicated professionals, including prosecutors, paralegals, and victim’s advocates, who help provide a net of services and support for those experiencing domestic violence so they can not only seek justice in the courts but achieve healing in their lives.

If you would like more information regarding our Domestic Violence Unit and Victims Services, please call 305-547-0140 or visit miamisao.com.

Thank you and God Bless,

Sincerely,

IN THIS EDITION:

State Attorney

Katherine Fernandez

Rundle

State Attorney Joins Federal and Local Partners at G20 Security Kickoff Press Conference

Honoring Hispanic Heritage: A Month of Culture, Connection, and Community

State Attorney Honored at Perla de Esperanza Foundation’s Purple & Pink Ribbon Awareness Luncheon

Standing Together in Pink: SAO Honors Breast Cancer Awareness Month

In the News:

Notable Court Proceedings This Month

State Attorney Honored at Perla de Esperanza Foundation’s Purple & Pink Ribbon Awareness Luncheon

State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle served as the keynote speaker and was honored with the Purple Ribbon Award – Excellence in Leadership at the Perla de Esperanza Foundation’s Purple & Pink Ribbon Awareness Luncheon, an event dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence and supporting survivors throughout Miami‑Dade County. Also in attendance were Supervisor of Elections Alina García, City of Doral Mayor Christi Fraga, City of Doral Police Chief Matthew Castillo, and Hialeah Police Chief George Fuente, who joined community leaders and advocates in recognizing the importance of prevention, support, and survivor empowerment. The State Attorney’s award highlighted her longstanding commitment to public service and her unwavering dedication to protecting victims across our community.

Reflecting on the mission of her office, the State Attorney shared:

“My commitment and that of my staff is to provide meaningful, compassionate, and comprehensive support to victims of crime. We have transformed our office into a model of innovation and service, ensuring that every survivor receives not only justice, but also the care and assistance they deserve.”

In her keynote address, the State Attorney underscored the urgent need for continued advocacy, citing sobering national statistics that highlight the prevalence of intimate partner violence. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men in the United States experience severe intimate partner violence in their lifetime. Additionally, twenty people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner, demonstrating the widespread and devastating impact of domestic violence. Recent FBI crime data (2020–2024) revealed that violent crimes occurring within domestic relationships increased from 25% in 2020 to 27.5% in 2024, encompassing more than 1.1 million domestic violence victims and over 11,000 domestic murder victims over the five‑year span. Women accounted for nearly 75% of those victims.

The State Attorney also highlighted the Miami‑Dade State Attorney’s Office’s pioneering role in addressing domestic violence. She noted that the office’s Domestic Violence Unit was the first specialized domestic crimes unit in Florida, serving as the model for the approach now used throughout the entire state. This groundbreaking work continues to shape how prosecutors, law enforcement, and victim‑service organizations collaborate to protect survivors and hold offenders accountable.

The Perla de Esperanza Foundation’s luncheon served as a powerful reminder of the importance of community partnerships, survivor‑centered support, and continued advocacy. The Miami‑Dade State Attorney’s Office remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting victims, raising awareness, and working alongside community organizations to promote safety, healing, and justice for all.



State Attorney Joins Federal and Local Partners at G20 Security Kickoff Press Conference

State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle participated in the G20 Summit Security Kickoff Press Conference, hosted by the U.S. Secret Service, alongside multiple federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. With the G20 Summit scheduled to take place at Trump National Doral this December, the press conference served as the official launch of coordinated security preparations for one of the largest international events Miami‑Dade has ever hosted.

The event brought together key leaders from the agencies responsible for safeguarding the summit, including U.S. Secret Service Special Agent in Charge Michael Townsend, FBI Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles, Miami‑Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero‑Stutz and Doral Police Chief Matthew Castillo. Each outlined the extensive planning underway to ensure the safety of world leaders, delegates, and the surrounding community. The State Attorney spoke on the critical role our office will play in supporting these efforts, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, readiness, and seamless communication across all agencies involved.

During her remarks, State Attorney Fernandez Rundle reaffirmed the SAO's commitment to assisting law enforcement throughout the summit, stating: “I, and my staff, are ready to provide all the support needed by our law enforcement partners and our prosecutors and to assist them in dealing with any of the legal issues that may arise during this international forum.”

Her participation highlighted the Miami‑Dade State Attorney’s Office’s longstanding partnership with federal and local agencies and its integral role in major security operations across the county. As preparations continue, the State Attorney’s Office remains fully engaged in ensuring that Miami‑Dade is ready to safely and successfully host this global event.



Honoring Hispanic Heritage:

A Month of Culture, Connection, and Community

From September 15 through October 15, the Miami‑Dade State Attorney’s Office proudly celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of our Hispanic and Latino communities. This year’s celebration brought staff together through a series of lively, food‑filled events that highlighted the diversity and spirit of our office.

Throughout the month, employees enjoyed themed gatherings including Chips & Dips Day, Taco Tuesday, Café con Leche y Tostada, and the always‑popular SAO Ventanita, where staff connected over classic Latin pastries and coffee. Each event featured a variety of dishes and desserts representing countries across Latin America, showcasing the flavors and traditions that make our community so vibrant.

The celebration concluded with our Gran Fiesta, the biggest event of the month and a joyful finale that brought the entire office together. Staff enjoyed music, food, and fellowship as we closed out Hispanic Heritage Month in true SAO fashion. State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle addressed the office, thanking employees for their participation and for embracing the cultural significance of the month. She expressed her appreciation for the unity, enthusiasm, and pride shown throughout the celebrations.

Hispanic Heritage Month continues to be a meaningful tradition at the SAO, one that reflects our commitment to honoring the diverse communities we serve and celebrating the cultures that enrich Miami‑Dade County.

Thank you to the Hispanic Heritage Committee

A heartfelt thank‑you goes to the dedicated members of the Hispanic Heritage Committee, whose hard work and creativity made this year’s celebration exceptional:

Miriam Martinez, Mayda Hernandez, Trinere Purifoy, Carla Ribie, Cary Jose, Stephanie Mercado, Bryan Delgado, Marc Alain Dugue, Jerry Pierre, George Chaviano, Tangela Slater, Susan Gonzalez, Harry Fisher, Albert Martinez, Nicole Martinez, Joan Hernandez, Jackie Sanchez, Howard Rosen, and Barbara Pelaez.

Their commitment ensured that each event was meaningful, festive, and reflective of the cultures we proudly honor.

Hispanic Heritage Month continues to be a cherished tradition at the SAO, one that celebrates the communities we serve and the cultural richness that strengthens Miami‑Dade County.

Standing Together in Pink:

SAO Honors Breast Cancer Awareness Month

In October, the Miami‑Dade State Attorney’s Office proudly recognized Breast Cancer Awareness Month by wearing pink in solidarity with survivors, families, and all those affected by this devastating disease. For many in our SAO family, breast cancer has touched their lives personally through loved ones, friends, and colleagues, making this month especially significant.

State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle also joined in wearing pink, honoring the memory of her beloved mother and sister, both of whom lost their battle with breast cancer. Her tribute served as a reminder of the importance of awareness, early detection, and continued support for those with this illness.

By coming together, the SAO reaffirmed its commitment to compassion, unity, and advocacy, standing with survivors and honoring those we have lost, while continuing to promote hope and healing throughout our community.



Together Against Domestic Violence:

SAO Victim/Witness Services During

DV Awareness Month

Throughout Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Miami‑Dade State Attorney’s Office Victim/Witness Services Division was actively out in the community, joining law enforcement agencies, service providers, advocacy groups, and survivors at events across Miami‑Dade County. Their presence throughout the month underscored the SAO’s commitment to awareness, prevention, and ensuring that victims know support is always available.

The Division participated in a variety of outreach efforts, including appreciation gatherings for domestic violence service providers, community resource fairs, awareness walks and runs, and National Night Out events hosted by local police departments. Whether connecting residents with resources, standing in solidarity with survivors, or strengthening partnerships with organizations dedicated to safety and healing, Victim/Witness Services staff showed unwavering dedication to being visible, supportive, and engaged.

By attending events such as the Miami Woman’s Club Service Providers Appreciation Brunch, the DVA 365 Road Tour, community 5K walks, and multiple police‑led awareness initiatives, the Division helped amplify the message that domestic violence affects every community and that prevention, education, and accessible services remain essential.

Their month‑long outreach reflects the Miami‑Dade State Attorney’s Office’s ongoing commitment to supporting survivors, fostering collaboration, and working hand‑in‑hand with partners to promote safety and empowerment throughout Miami‑Dade County.



In the News:

Jury Recommends Death Penalty

for Murdering Ex Wife and Her 2 Daughters

Judge Sentences Man to 50 Years for Fatal Shooting

of Tourist in Front of Wife and Child

State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle thanks all who attended the “Second Chance” Sealing and Expungement event held at the held at the Miami-Dade College North Campus, Conference Center. The SAO assisted 75 individuals, with 55 attendees eligible to seal or expunge one prior arrest in Miami-Dade County.

“Second Chance" events would not be possible without the help of our extraordinary volunteers and community partners, including District 2 County Commissioner Marleine Bastien, Miami-Dade Clerk of Court and Comptroller’s office, Miami-Dade County Tax Collector's Office, and the Miami-Dade Public Defender’s Office. Together, we are helping residents move forward with renewed opportunities.

We look forward to continuing to bring these life‑changing opportunities to neighborhoods across Miami‑Dade County.



Upcoming Event:

Second Chance Sealing & Expungement

The State Attorney’s Office will host its next Second Chance Seal or Expungement event on Wednesday, November 18, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.at the IBEW Local Union 34.

This free community event helps eligible individuals begin the process of sealing or expunging their Miami‑Dade arrest records, with staff and partners on‑site to answer questions and assist with applications.



Community members are encouraged to attend and take an important step toward new opportunities and a fresh start.



Profile in Passion

This month, we highlight a distinguished member of our SAO family.

We present our

SAO Profile in Passion -

Elvira Quiala,

Paralegal,

M.O.V.E.S

Visit our website | www.miamisao.com