Manuel "Manny" Fernández, a 55-year-old former lieutenant from the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR), was taken into custody last Monday following a thorough investigation uncovering hidden cameras in the restrooms of two county fire stations. This scandal has sent shockwaves through both the community and the local fire department. The investigation began on April 1, 2023, when an employee at MDFR Station 69 in Doral found a suspicious device in the men's restroom.
The object, resembling a wall charger with a USB port, turned out to house a covert camera equipped with a micro-SD card. Upon reviewing the card's contents, authorities discovered over 600 video clips recorded between February 11 and April 1 of that year. These recordings captured 18 employees—both men and women—in highly private and vulnerable moments within the station's restrooms.
As investigators analyzed the material, they identified 11 of the victims and noticed in one of the clips a Caucasian male, wearing a gray MDFR uniform shirt and a silver watch on his left wrist, adjusting the camera. Although the man's face wasn't visible, his hands were captured manipulating the device.
Another video was later found, filmed in the women's exclusive restroom at Station 66 in Homestead. By cross-referencing the staff schedules of both stations, police determined that Fernández was the only employee present at both locations during the recording dates. This crucial finding linked him to the incidents.
As the investigation unfolded in April 2023, and after the camera's discovery, Fernández abruptly entered a rehabilitation center, according to an internal memo addressed to Fire Chief Raied "Ray" Jadallah. When authorities attempted to interview him at the center, Fernández refused to speak without legal counsel. At that time, he was seen wearing a watch similar to the one observed in the videos.
The Fire Department placed him on administrative duties with pay from home after being informed by police that he was the primary suspect. He eventually resigned from his position in March 2024. An arrest warrant was issued on July 2, 2025. Fernández was apprehended days later at the Doral city police station and released after posting a $27,500 bond. He currently faces 11 formal charges of video voyeurism.
The Miami-Dade Fire Department released a statement reaffirming its commitment to the safety and well-being of its employees, emphasizing full cooperation with the authorities throughout the investigation. Chief Jadallah described the situation as "serious" and promised complete transparency in the process.
The case remains under active investigation by the Miami-Dade County Sheriff's Office, which has not ruled out the possibility of additional charges being filed.
Key Developments in Miami-Dade Firefighter Video Voyeurism Case
What led to the discovery of the hidden cameras in the fire stations?
The discovery was made when an MDFR Station 69 employee found a suspicious device in the men's restroom, which turned out to be a hidden camera resembling a USB wall charger.
How many victims were identified in the videos?
Investigators identified 11 victims among the 18 employees recorded in the videos, which included both men and women.
Why was Manuel Fernández considered the primary suspect?
Fernández was identified as the only employee who worked at both fire stations during the times the recordings were made, linking him to the incidents.
What charges is Fernández currently facing?
Manuel Fernández is currently facing 11 formal charges of video voyeurism.