Evelyn Fernández, a retired former lieutenant of the Miami-Dade Police, received a seven-year prison sentence on Tuesday after pleading guilty to attempted murder and other charges related to a violent incident that occurred in October 2023 in the county's southwest region.
At 53, Fernández admitted in a Florida court to firing a gun at her former partner, a retired major from the Miami Police, during an altercation at the intersection of Southwest 282nd Street and 167th Avenue. Although she missed, her ex's vehicle was hit by multiple bullets. After the shooting, Fernández fled and barricaded herself in another residence, leading to a standoff with law enforcement that lasted over 14 hours.
Under an agreement with the County State Attorney’s Office, Fernández was sentenced to seven years in prison, with credit for time already served, followed by 20 years of probation. The first two years of probation will involve electronic GPS monitoring, and she must wear a SCRAM bracelet to monitor alcohol consumption. Additionally, Fernández is required to attend a treatment program in Tennessee, continue therapy with a licensed psychiatrist, and adhere to prescribed medications.
The sentence also includes a restraining order preventing her from contacting the victim and his children, and she must surrender any firearms in her possession. The prosecution opted to drop the original mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years, although they warned that any violations of probation could result in a life sentence. The victim approved the plea agreement, as confirmed by authorities.
This incident is not Fernández's first brush with the law. In 2016, she faced charges of theft and property damage in connection to a dispute with her then-partner, former Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Álvarez. Those charges were dismissed after two months.
The case in October 2023 prompted a significant police operation, including evacuations of local residents and the deployment of special units from the Miami-Dade Police Department. Deputy Chief Rosanna Cordero Stutz noted at the time that Fernández alternated between cooperation and resistance, complicating her arrest.
Understanding the Legal Proceedings in Evelyn Fernández's Case
What charges did Evelyn Fernández face?
Evelyn Fernández faced charges of attempted murder and other related offenses following a violent encounter involving her ex-partner.
What were the terms of Evelyn Fernández's sentence?
Fernández was sentenced to seven years in prison, followed by 20 years of probation, with conditions including electronic monitoring and participation in treatment programs.
Did the victim agree to the plea deal?
Yes, the victim consented to the plea agreement as confirmed by the authorities involved in the case.