A 27-year-old officer from the Miami Police Department, identified as Stephany Cañizares, was taken into custody following a domestic dispute involving her partner, who is also in law enforcement. The incident, which unfolded last weekend, involved a gun being fired outside the residence they share with their five-month-old daughter. As a result, Cañizares was jailed on charges of aggravated assault and discharging a firearm in public, though her nationality remains undisclosed.
Genesis of the Altercation
According to court documents and the arrest report, which were cited by local media, the conflict began when Cañizares reportedly discovered "inappropriate messages" on her partner's phone. The situation quickly escalated. The man told authorities he found Cañizares outside their home, talking on the phone while holding a pistol. Shortly after, he heard what he believed to be a gunshot.
Three hours later, Cañizares herself dialed 911 to report that she had fired her weapon and expressed her intention to surrender. She told the police that her boyfriend had been restraining her against her will but managed to escape when officers arrived. During the police intervention, her boyfriend, who is also the father of their child, informed officers he feared for the baby's safety, prompting him to lock himself in a room with the infant while armed with his own gun.
Police noted that Cañizares exhibited unusual behavior during her arrest, leading to her transfer to a medical facility for evaluation before being taken to jail.
Judicial Hearing: No Probable Cause for Major Charges
Cañizares appeared before a bail judge on Monday, with her partner participating remotely via Zoom. His testimony was crucial in the preliminary resolution of the case:
"Are you afraid of the accused?"
"No, sir, I am not afraid, nor was I at the time of the incident," the young officer's partner assured.
Based on this, the judge determined there was no probable cause to uphold the aggravated assault charge or the severe discharge of a firearm charge. A $500 bond was set, which was posted on the same day. Cañizares was released from the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center (TGK) and allowed to return home under a modified restraining order.
From Public Figure to Mugshot
The case has drawn attention due to Cañizares' prominence within the police force. She was a notable figure at institutional events. Four years ago, she sang the national anthem at the swearing-in ceremony of the current Miami Police Chief, Manny Morales, and was photographed alongside high-ranking department officials. Her public image, associated with ceremonies and formal events, starkly contrasts with her recent arrest photo, where she is seen in a hospital gown and handcuffed after being evaluated for erratic behavior.
Administrative Leave with Pay
In a statement issued to local media, the Miami Police Department confirmed that the officer "has been relieved of her duties with pay" pending an active internal investigation into the incident. At present, Cañizares faces a minor charge related to the misuse of a firearm outdoors, but her professional and legal status may change based on the outcome of the ongoing inquiry.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Miami Police Officer Incident
What led to the arrest of Stephany Cañizares?
Stephany Cañizares was arrested following a domestic altercation with her police officer partner, involving the discharge of a firearm outside their home.
What charges were filed against Cañizares?
She was initially charged with aggravated assault and discharging a firearm in public, but these charges were not upheld after a preliminary court hearing.
How did the judge rule in Cañizares' case?
The judge found no probable cause to maintain the aggravated assault charge or the severe charge of firearm discharge, resulting in a $500 bail.