FtLauderdalePDNews Release # 2022-023 FLPD Case Number 17-080998 Missing Juvenile - Sophie Reeder Missing from - 1308 Citrus Isle in the City of Fort Lauderdale Missing since - May 20, 2017 Webpage with details: www.flpd.org/SophieReeder Anyone with information should contact police immediately by calling 954-828-6677 or emailing SophieTips@fortlauderdale.gov. Anyone who provides credible information leading to the recovery of Sophie Reeder may be eligible for up to a $25,000 reward.
Sophie Reeder: Still Missing After 5 YearsFtLauderdalePD2022-05-24 | News Release # 2022-023 FLPD Case Number 17-080998 Missing Juvenile - Sophie Reeder Missing from - 1308 Citrus Isle in the City of Fort Lauderdale Missing since - May 20, 2017 Webpage with details: www.flpd.org/SophieReeder Anyone with information should contact police immediately by calling 954-828-6677 or emailing SophieTips@fortlauderdale.gov. Anyone who provides credible information leading to the recovery of Sophie Reeder may be eligible for up to a $25,000 reward.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 53 – I Need A Plate?FtLauderdalePD2026-09-23 | This week's stop started with something noticeably missing from the back of the car.
A license plate.
The driver explained that the vehicle had been purchased in August, picked up about three weeks ago, and driven all the way down from Virginia without a tag attached.
When the officer explained that the plate needed to be displayed on the vehicle, the driver knew. They just hadn't gotten around to putting it on yet.
The officer also explained that driving without a displayed tag can create much bigger problems, including issues involving toll evasion, and that the situation could have resulted in more than the citation they were receiving that day.
Florida Statute 316.605 requires a license plate to be securely fastened to the vehicle to which it is assigned and displayed so it is clearly visible and legible.
The driver was issued a citation, but with heavy traffic and the stop taking place in a tight construction zone, having them install the plate on the side of the road would have created an unnecessary safety risk. Since they lived right up the road, they were instructed to attach it as soon as they got home.
Three weeks, a drive from Virginia, and one traffic stop later...
Probably time to put the plate on.BTS EP. 22 - TRAP HOUSEFtLauderdalePD2026-09-16 | A narcotics investigation. A known trap house. A high risk warrant.
Before the team ever reaches the target, the mission is built piece by piece. Intelligence, known subjects, potential threats, routes, assignments, and contingencies are all worked through before the first vehicle moves.
Then the briefing ends. The gear goes on. The armored trucks roll out.
This episode takes you inside a real SWAT operation from the final planning stages to the moment the team arrives on target and puts the plan into action.
This is what the SWAT team trains for.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 52 – Stop Sign?FtLauderdalePD2026-09-16 | This week, our Motor Unit was out near State Road 84 and Miami Road addressing neighborhood complaints about a stop sign that apparently doesn't get the respect it deserves.
It didn't take long to see why. Officers watched multiple vehicles back-to-back drive straight through the stop sign, some barely slowing down at all, in an area already known for crashes.
When this driver was stopped, he was pretty sure he had stopped and explained there was a car in front of him.
The video showed otherwise.
The Motor Unit also spent time conducting enforcement in our school zones, where the posted 15 MPH speed limit is there to protect students arriving and leaving school.
Florida Statute 316.123 requires drivers approaching a stop sign to come to a complete stop before proceeding, while F.S. 316.1895 establishes school-zone speed requirements and enhanced penalties for speeding within a school zone.
From neighborhood complaints to school zones, targeted traffic enforcement puts officers in the areas where residents are seeing problems and where slowing down can make a difference.
Stop signs and 15 MPH school zones.
Neither one is a suggestion.September 11, 2001. We will never forget.FtLauderdalePD2026-09-11 | 25 years ago, our nation was forever changed. Today, we remember the lives lost and honor the police officers, firefighters, military members, and first responders who answered the call with courage and sacrifice.New Police Headquarters Ribbon Cutting CeremonyFtLauderdalePD2026-09-10 | The Fort Lauderdale Police Department proudly marks the official opening of its new Police Headquarters with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 1300 W. Broward Boulevard.
This milestone represents a new chapter for the Fort Lauderdale Police Department and a continued commitment to serving the Fort Lauderdale community from a modern facility built for the future.A New ChapterFtLauderdalePD2026-09-10 | A new chapter for the Fort Lauderdale Police Department.
Today, we officially cut the ribbon on our new Police Headquarters alongside department members, city leaders, retirees, families and members of our community.
More than just a new building, this headquarters represents the future of our department, while honoring the generations who helped get us here.
Built to serve our officers, our community and the City of Fort Lauderdale for years to come.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 51 – They Were SpeedingFtLauderdalePD2026-09-09 | This week, Traffic Tuesday is back on the water with our Marine Unit.
While patrolling a slow-speed zone, officers spotted two jet skis zipping around up on plane while everyone else seemed to have gotten the message. When stopped, the riders explained they didn't realize they were in a slow-speed zone and hadn't seen the sign.
The big sign.
In a posted slow-speed zone, vessels are required to operate fully off plane and settled in the water while maintaining minimum wake. These zones are designed to keep our waterways safe for boaters, swimmers, wildlife, and property along the shoreline.
The riders were given a warning before officers conducted a vessel safety check. Both had the required safety equipment on board and passed without any issues.
A little education, a reminder to keep an eye on those signs, and they were sent on their way.
Sometimes the signs really are there for a reason.BTS – EP 21. SNAIL MAILFtLauderdalePD2026-09-03 | A threat is made. A suspicious package is left behind. And the Bomb Squad gets the call.
From there, it’s about slowing everything down, working the problem, and making the right decisions as the scenario continues to change.
For one team member preparing to attend bomb school, it was a full test of the process from start to finish.
Work the problem. Trust the process. Be ready when it’s real.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 50 – DWLSFtLauderdalePD2026-09-02 | She was in a hurry to get back to the store after realizing she left her wallet behind. The problem was, that rush included blowing through a stop sign right in front of an officer.
Once stopped, the forgotten wallet quickly became the least of her problems.
A check revealed her driver's license was suspended, and this wasn't her first time dealing with it. Just a few months prior, she had been arrested for driving with a suspended license after failing to appear in court. Now, she was back behind the wheel with a suspended license again.
Florida Statute 322.34 makes it unlawful to knowingly drive while your license or driving privilege is suspended or revoked, with increased penalties for subsequent convictions.
This time, she was issued a criminal citation for DWLS and sent on her way.
The wallet could wait. Getting the license situation handled probably shouldn't.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 49 – The Shoes Made Me FasterFtLauderdalePD2026-08-25 | 68 mph in a 35 mph zone caught the officer’s attention, but the driver wasn’t exactly convinced she had been speeding.
First, it was a new car. Then, she explained that she never gets in trouble. And eventually, we arrived at the real culprit: her shoes.
According to the driver, she learned how to drive without shoes, so apparently these particular shoes were making her go a little faster than expected.
Florida law requires drivers to obey posted speed limits and prohibits driving at a speed greater than what is reasonable and lawful for the conditions. At 68 in a 35, the shoes weren't going to get the blame.
After some back and forth, the driver was issued two citations. Despite not being too happy about the stop, she thanked the officers and was sent on her way.
New car. Clean history. Fast shoes.
Unfortunately, none of those change the speed limit.BTS Ep. 20 — Energetic BreachingFtLauderdalePD2026-08-20 | When the SWAT team needs a way in, the breachers make one.
This training focused on testing different charges, studying the results, and learning what works before it has to work for real.
Because when the real call comes, they have to get it right the first time.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 48 – The Car Was Riding MeFtLauderdalePD2026-08-18 | Driving at night with no lights is already a problem. Pulling into an intersection with no lights and nearly getting hit takes it to another level.
The driver had stopped at the stop sign before pulling out, but another vehicle came through the intersection and nearly hit her. When the officer stopped her, she had no idea her lights were off. She explained that it was a rental and they were out making deliveries when it happened.
Florida law requires vehicles to display their lights from sunset to sunrise, including twilight hours, and during rain, smoke, or fog. Your headlights aren't just there so you can see the road. They're also there so everyone else can see you.
Luckily, this stop was a friendly one. The driver understood what happened, got her lights turned on, and even had one question for the officer:
“Am I going to be on TikTok?”
Not TikTok... but Traffic Tuesday is pretty close.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 47 – Would You Look at ThatFtLauderdalePD2026-08-11 | Sometimes one traffic stop leads directly to the next one.
An officer was stopped with a white car for driving without any lights on when a BMW with a loud exhaust caught his attention. The driver cut across several cars into the turn lane, spotted the officer and conveniently turned on his signal like he was actually going to make the left.
The officer gave the first driver a warning and said he had a feeling the BMW wasn't turning anywhere. Sure enough, once the light changed the BMW went straight from the turn lane, cut back into the westbound lanes and proved the officer's prediction almost immediately.
During the stop, the officer explained his newfound career as a mind reader. The driver admitted what he did, apologized and took responsibility.
Florida law requires drivers to obey traffic control devices and lane-use markings under F.S. Chapter 316, including F.S. 316.074, and unsafe or improper lane changes are addressed under F.S. 316.089.
Would you look at that... maybe he is a mind reader.The RaisingFtLauderdalePD2026-08-05 | This morning, officers gathered in front of the Fort Lauderdale Police Department as our Honor Guard officially raised the City of Fort Lauderdale, State of Florida, and United States flags over the station.
The ceremony marked the official raising of the flags and served as a moment to reflect on the commitment, service, and responsibility shared by those who wear the badge.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 46 – I Didnt KnowFtLauderdalePD2026-08-04 | This week, we're trading four wheels for propellers.
While patrolling the Intracoastal, our Marine Unit spotted this boat on full plane through a posted slow speed zone. The operator said she thought it was still a run zone and didn't realize the speed had changed after the recent jet ski crash.
She even asked if they could put up some signs. The officer's response? "They did... there are six of them."
The welcoming committee of three barking dogs made sure everyone knew the Marine Unit had arrived, but the safety inspection also found the boat was missing some critical items.
The operator received a warning for the speed violation and two fix-it citations for the missing safety equipment before continuing on her way.
Florida boating laws (F.S. Chapter 327) require operators to obey posted speed zones and carry the required safety equipment.
Turns out the signs were there... they just weren't getting as much attention as the dogs.School is almost back in session! #flpd #fortlauderdaleFtLauderdalePD2026-08-04 | School is almost back in session and our School Resource Officers are ready to welcome students, teachers and families back to campus.
As a new school year begins, let’s all do our part to keep our schools safe. Slow down in school zones, use the crosswalks, stay alert during drop-off and pick-up and watch for students walking and riding to school.
From all of us at the Fort Lauderdale Police Department, we wish everyone a safe, successful and memorable school year. We’ll see you soon.The Second Annual Chief’s Cup is officially in the books. #flpd #fortlauderdale #golf #golfswingFtLauderdalePD2026-07-30 | On Monday, officers from across the department hit the links for a day of friendly competition, camaraderie and the chance to take home the Chief’s Cup and a full year of bragging rights.
Whether they were seasoned golfers or just happy they made contact with the ball, everyone came out to compete, have fun and spend time together outside of work. Some played for the trophy, others were just trying to find their golf ball.
A special thank you to Jacaranda Golf Club for hosting this year’s tournament and helping make the event a success. Congratulations to this year’s champions. We’ll see who claims the Cup next year.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 45 – That Was Stupid of MeFtLauderdalePD2026-07-30 | Turns out when you’re staring at your phone, it’s pretty easy to lose track of where you are.
An officer spotted this driver texting while driving. By the time he looked up, he realized he was about to miss his turn. Instead of taking the next one, he sped up, cut across multiple lanes of traffic, and ran a red light to make the left.
After the stop, he admitted he was on his phone and that he simply wasn’t paying attention. Two citations were issued.
A reminder that F.S. 316.305 prohibits texting while driving, and F.S. 316.075 requires drivers to obey traffic control signals including stopping at a steady red light.
Missing your turn is an inconvenience. Causing a crash because you were texting is a whole lot worse.Is This Your Car?FtLauderdalePD2026-07-24 | Checkout The Full Episode! Fort Lauderdale's Endangered Persons Unit is responsible for monitoring registered sexual predators and sexual offenders, conducting regular compliance checks. During a compliance check, EPU investigators confronted a sexual predator about failing to disclose the vehicle, despite it being a requirement of his release. Watch the conversation unfold in this episode of BTS.Im Getting Out Of The Way #flpd #bts #arrest #bwc #fortlauderdale #warrantFtLauderdalePD2026-07-24 | Fort Lauderdale's Endangered Persons Unit is responsible for monitoring registered sexual predators and sexual offenders, conducting regular compliance checks, verifying registration information, and ensuring they're following state laws and local ordinances designed to help protect our community.BTS Ep. 19 – OFFENDER SWEEPFtLauderdalePD2026-07-23 | Protecting the community doesn't end when a sentence is served.
Fort Lauderdale's Endangered Persons Unit is responsible for monitoring registered sexual predators and sexual offenders, conducting regular compliance checks, verifying registration information, and ensuring they're following state laws and local ordinances designed to help protect our community.
During routine compliance checks, EPU detectives made three arrests two registered offenders with active warrants and one registered offender arrested for trespassing after being found on a property with an active trespass affidavit.
This week, EPU detectives also participated in Operation Adam's Watch, joining agencies across the state in conducting additional compliance checks and enforcement efforts. While that operation lasts only a week, the work doesn't stop there. EPU detectives conduct these compliance checks year-round, working every day to ensure offenders remain in compliance and to hold those who violate the law accountable.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 44 – Safety LeaderFtLauderdalePD2026-07-21 | If this was his version of leading by example... it missed the mark.
The rider lane split between multiple cars stopped at a red light, ran the light, crossed the railroad tracks, then rode down the sidewalk to park in front of a business all right in front of a police officer.
During the stop, he admitted he had just bought the motorcycle, it wasn't registered yet, and the tag displayed belonged to another motorcycle he owned.
Several citations were issued. Under Florida law (F.S. Chapter 316), motorcycles are required to follow the same rules of the road as every other vehicle—including stopping at red lights, staying off sidewalks, and displaying the proper registration.
Turns out the only thing he was leading was the citation count.FIFA World Cup 2026 has come to a close!FtLauderdalePD2026-07-18 | As FIFA World Cup 2026 comes to a close, we’re proud of the role our officers and staff played in helping keep it all safe.
Over the past several weeks, our officers helped secure teams as they traveled throughout Fort Lauderdale, escorted players to and from their destinations and provided security at fan festivals, watch parties and celebrations that brought thousands of supporters together.
While the spotlight was on the game, our officers were working behind the scenes to help ensure every event was safe, secure and successful.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 43 – Wrong WayFtLauderdalePD2026-07-14 | He said he just bought the moped a few weeks ago. Unfortunately, he also thought the sidewalk was an extra lane. To get around traffic and a steady red light, he rode right down the sidewalk before getting pulled over. His request? "Can I just get a warning?"
Reminder: In Florida, mopeds, motorcycles, motor scooters, and other motor vehicles are meant to be operated on the roadway—not the sidewalk. Drivers must obey traffic control devices (F.S. 316.074) and driving on sidewalks is prohibited except in limited circumstances (F.S. 316.1995).
The sidewalk isn't a shortcut. It's for pedestrians.BTS Ep. 18: Quick Reaction Force #flpd #fortlauderdale #fieldforce #riotgamesFtLauderdalePD2026-07-08 | FLPD’s Quick Reaction Force conducted a mock field force exercise in preparation for the FIFA World Cup and other major events across South Florida. When large crowds turn violent and unrest breaks out, these officers are trained to respond quickly, restore order, and protect the community.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 42 – I Just Bought ItFtLauderdalePD2026-07-07 | The stop started with an exhaust that couldn't be ignored. As the vehicle traveled down Federal Highway, the modified exhaust echoed through the roadway, popping and backfiring loud enough to catch the officer's attention. When asked about it, the driver didn't deny it.
He explained that he had just bought the car that way a few months ago and hadn't changed anything himself.
There was just one problem. Records showed he'd actually owned the car since April 2024. The driver also wasn't carrying his driver's license, adding another violation to the stop.
Florida law requires every vehicle to be equipped with a muffler in good working order and prohibits modifications that amplify or increase noise beyond what was originally installed by the manufacturer.
Reminded that once you buy the car, its equipment violations become your responsibility whether you installed them or not.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 41 – This Guys MovingFtLauderdalePD2026-06-30 | The driver flew past officers at 64 mph in a 40 mph zone. By the time they turned around to catch up, he was already several blocks ahead, making his way toward I-95 South.
Once stopped, the driver explained he was coming from a gathering, but the officer quickly brought the focus back to what mattered.
"We've got people out here."
Speeding through city streets doesn't just put the driver at risk—it puts everyone else sharing the road at risk too.
Florida law requires drivers to obey posted speed limits, and in this case the violation earned the driver a citation. After a brief conversation about slowing down and driving safely, he accepted the ticket, thanked the officer, and continued on his way.
Sometimes the stop is straightforward.
Slow down, drive safe, and everyone gets home.BTS Ep. 17 – Dive Team #fortlauderdale #flpdFtLauderdalePD2026-06-24 | Baywatch vibes, South Florida reality.
Our Dive Team teamed up with FLFR Ocean Rescue and the Marine Unit for a mock drowning call, searching by boat, Jet Ski, and underwater until the victim was located and recovered.
The slow-motion running was optional. The training wasn’t. Exercises like this help ensure everyone knows their role before the real call comes in.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 40 – I Wasnt Doing Anything CrazyFtLauderdalePD2026-06-23 | According to the rider, he was just taking a friend for a ride on a motorcycle that belonged to someone else.
The ride caught the officer's attention after the rider was seen all over the road and blowing through two stop signs. Once stopped, the problems started piling up. The motorcycle had no tag and no registration. The rider insisted he didn't know the tag was missing and explained that the bike belonged to a friend who had dropped it off to him and it must have fallen off.
Then there was the rear tire. It was so worn that the metal belts were showing through the tread.
The rider didn't even have a motorcycle endorsement, meaning he wasn't legally licensed to operate a motorcycle. Under Florida law, operating a motorcycle without the proper endorsement is a criminal traffic offense and motorcycles operated on public roadways are required to be properly registered.
Despite repeatedly insisting he wasn't doing anything crazy, the rider was given a break. Rather than being arrested for the criminal violation, he was issued a criminal citation and released.
The motorcycle, however, wasn't going anywhere. With no tag, no registration, no insurance, a dangerously worn tire and no legal operator, it was towed.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 39 – No, They Are NormalFtLauderdalePD2026-06-17 | The driver came through the tunnel doing 71 in a 35, with an exhaust loud enough to announce his arrival long before the car came into view. When the officer pointed out the modified exhaust, the driver disagreed.
"No, they are normal." They weren't...
The exhaust had been cut off and straight piped. Florida law requires every vehicle to be equipped with a muffler in good working order and prohibits modifications that amplify or increase noise beyond what was originally installed by the manufacturer.
The driver was also not wearing a seat belt, which led to a conversation about why that simple click still matters every time you get behind the wheel.
The driver received citations for the modified exhaust and seat belt violations and was sent on his way. The speed got a warning. The "normal" exhaust did not.Congratulations to the newest graduates of Police Explorers Post 1160.FtLauderdalePD2026-06-15 | We celebrated our newest Explorer Academy graduates, recognized several Explorers who earned promotions to higher leadership positions within the post, and presented the first-ever Fairburn Excellence Award.
This inaugural award was presented to Officer Fairburn in recognition of his dedication to the Explorer program, his commitment to its members, and his leadership in revitalizing and growing the program into what it is today. Beginning next year, the Fairburn Excellence Award will be presented annually to an Explorer who demonstrates outstanding leadership, character, and dedication.
Congratulations to all of our graduates, newly promoted leaders, and Officer Fairburn on this well-deserved honor.Teen Takeovers Will Not Be Tolerated  #flpd #fortlauderdale #teentakeoverFtLauderdalePD2026-06-12 | Teen takeovers are not harmless gatherings. They create dangerous situations, disrupt our community, and put residents, visitors, and first responders at risk.
If you’re planning to come to Fort Lauderdale to cause problems, think again.
Our officers will be out in force, and we will enforce the law. Those who choose to break the law will be held accountable.
Fort Lauderdale will not tolerate this behavior.BTS Ep. 16 – Police Explorers #flpd #fortlauderdale #policeexplorersFtLauderdalePD2026-06-10 | Tomorrow they graduate.
But before the ceremony comes the work. From defensive tactics, learning the law and putting it into practice during scenarios. Our Explorers have spent months training, learning and pushing themselves to be better.
Take a behind-the-scenes look at the next generation in action.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 38 – I Wasn’t SpeedingFtLauderdalePD2026-06-10 | After being stopped and told he had been clocked on radar, the driver’s response was immediate:
“I wasn’t speeding.”
A few minutes later, the conversation shifted.
“Please have mercy on me.”
The officer explained that with a holiday weekend, prom night, and more people on the roads, speeding isn’t something to take lightly.
After checking his driving history and seeing a clean record, the officer decided a warning would do the job.
No citation. Just a reminder to slow down and drive safe.
Sometimes a clean record earns you a little mercy.FtLauderdalePD Live StreamFtLauderdalePD2026-06-08 | ...Traffic Tuesday Ep. 37 – Right Path, Bad LicenseFtLauderdalePD2026-06-03 | He was on his way to pick up his sister when the stop turned into a suspended license issue. Turns out, dad was helping to pay the insurance while he focused on trade school, learning to weld, and paying his way. Dad forgot…
In Florida, driving on a suspended license can be a criminal offense, and it is definitely not something you want to find out about during a traffic stop.
To make it even more convenient, his passenger didn’t have a license either, so they had to call someone else to come get the car and drive it away.
But this is also the side of policing most people don’t get to see. No record. Not out causing problems. Took responsibility. Handled it better than most. The officer looked at the entire situation and used common sense.
One citation for the suspended license. Someone with a valid license came to get the car. He was on the right path. His license just wasn’t.BTS Ep. 15 - Motor School #flpd #fortlauderdale #motorcycleFtLauderdalePD2026-05-27 | Day 1 of Motor School came with a quick reality check.
Some of the officers had never ridden a motorcycle before, but today they were thrown right into the training. There were a few drops, a few hard lessons, and a few who showed they could handle the challenge early.
But Motor School is not easy. It takes control, balance, focus, and the ability to stay calm when the bike does not do what you want it to do.
This was only the first day. The real tests start next week.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 36 – Im A Safe DriverFtLauderdalePD2026-05-26 | The stop signs disagreed. Rolled through two of them, swung the door wide open before the officer even got there and had to be told to stay in. Once he settled back in he didn't wait for a question. Launched straight into his life story. When he finally found out why he got stopped he had one response. Didn't happen. And besides, he's a safe driver. It says so on his license.
In Florida a stop sign means a complete stop. Every time. No exceptions.
Further review told a different story. Warrant for DUI and reckless driving. His explanation? He crashed into a lake; but he wasn't drunk. Arrested on the warrant. The lake could not be reached for comment.Certified officers - We’re Hiring!FtLauderdalePD2026-05-25 | Certified officers - We’re Hiring! https://linktr.ee/ftlpolice
From the streets, to the beach, to the intercostal, this city moves fast and we’re looking for officers ready to move with it.
If you’re already certified and ready for the next step in your law enforcement career, now is the time.
Competitive pay. Strong training. Real opportunities. A city that counts on you.
Join FLPD. Build your legacy. Apply today.That’s a bold strategy...FtLauderdalePD2026-05-20 | Running from a motor officer is a bad idea. Recording it… posting it online… and bragging about it? That’s a bold strategy.
An electric motorcycle rider thought he got away after fleeing from officers and riding recklessly through Fort Lauderdale. Through investigative follow-up, officers identified him, located him and placed him under arrest.
He was charged with felony fleeing and eluding, reckless driving and issued multiple traffic citations.
The bike? Confiscated.
Let this be the reminder: road takeovers, reckless riding and running from officers are not harmless stunts. They put everyone on the road at risk and they can turn a quick video into a trip to jail.
After more than a decade, the Fort Lauderdale Police Department (FLPD), with the assistance of the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) and several partnering agencies, has solved the disappearance of Trukita Scott, who was reported missing from Fort Lauderdale in June 2014.
Since Trukita’s disappearance, FLPD detectives have remained committed to seeking answers in her case. This includes former FLPD Homicide Sergeant Steve Novak, who continued working the investigation even after retiring from FLPD and later joining BSO’s Homicide Unit as a detective.
New details recently revealed about Trukita’s disappearance led detectives to Miami and on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, investigators discovered her remains on a residential property located in the 7500 block of Northeast 1st Court in Miami, Florida.
Detective Novak enlisted the help of Dr. Heather Walsh-Haney and her highly skilled Forensic Anthropology Team at Florida Gulf Coast University to carefully recover Trukita’s remains. Her team will also assist the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner’s Office in attempting to determine a cause of death. The investigation remains ongoing into the exact circumstances surrounding her death.
FLPD continues to work closely with the Florida Attorney General's Office of Statewide Prosecution regarding potential criminal charges.
FLPD extends its heartfelt gratitude to the agencies and individuals whose assistance and expertise were instrumental in advancing this investigation, including the Broward Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit and Crime Scene Unit, Dr. Heather Walsh-Haney and the Florida Gulf Coast University Forensic Anthropology Team, the City of Miami Police Department Homicide Unit, the Pembroke Pines Police Department Crime Scene Unit, the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Unit, the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Florida Attorney General’s Office.
FLPD recognizes the profound impact this case has had on Trukita Scott’s family and loved ones over the past 12 years and will continue to support them through this difficult time.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 35 – Click It Or Ticket #flpd #fortlauderdale #trafficstop #traffictuesdayFtLauderdalePD2026-05-19 | That’s one way to wear it. Technically.
Rolled through a red light, blocked the crosswalk, and the seatbelt was looped and tied behind his head to the headrest. Creative effort. Absolutely zero credit.
In Florida the belt goes across your chest and lap, every time. May is Click It or Ticket month for a reason. Tied behind you won’t save you. It’ll just look like you tried.
Clean record. Verbal warning.Wear it like it means something.They answered calls others wouldn’t. #peacofficermemorialday #policeweek #flpd #fortlauderdaleFtLauderdalePD2026-05-15 | They answered calls others wouldn’t. They stood between danger and the people they served.
Today, we honor the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice… and remember the families, friends, and brothers and sisters they left behind.
Their watch may have ended, but their legacy never will.
Peace Officers Memorial Day • May 15, 2026Traffic Tuesday Ep. 34 – Am I Good? #flpd #trafficstop #traffictuesday #fortlauderdaleFtLauderdalePD2026-05-12 | Traffic Tuesday Ep. 34 – Am I Good?
No. No you are not.
Pulled over for a headlight out and no tag light. During the stop the officer noticed the windows looked a little too dark, so he pulled out the tint meter. Results come back and the driver asks the question like he already knows the answer. “Am I good?” No man. Five percent. It can’t go lower than twenty-eight. Cue the ughhh. To his credit, the guy was friendly the whole time, laughed it off and took it in stride.
The nice ones still get tickets.
Here’s the thing though. A headlight out means other drivers can’t see you coming. No tag light means your plate disappears at night. And five percent tint doesn’t just make it hard for officers to see inside, it makes it hard for the driver to see out, especially at night or in low light. These aren’t just equipment violations, they’re the kind of things that turn a normal drive home into something a lot worse.
Two warnings and a fix-it ticket for the tag light. He took it well though. Better than most.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 33 – Car-aoke KingFtLauderdalePD2026-05-05 | Traffic Tuesday Ep. 33 – Car-aoke King Caught the performance live and in person.
A driver blew right through a stop sign, swung around the car that was actually stopped and crossed into oncoming traffic like it was his personal lane. Officer caught up to him down the block and that’s when the real show started. Front seat, full concert mode. Singing, dancing, phone up, recording himself like he was dropping a single.
His explanation? He was just FaceTiming someone.
In Florida, stop signs mean a complete stop. Not a slow roll, not a creative merge into oncoming traffic and using a handheld device while driving isn’t just a bad idea, it’s a moving violation on its own. If you’re too distracted to see a stop sign, you’re too distracted to be behind the wheel.
Warning for the careless driving. Ticket for the stop sign. Next time, maybe pull over before the encore.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 32 – “It’s Just a Rental” #flpd #trafficstop #traffictuesday #flpdFtLauderdalePD2026-04-29 | Traffic Tuesday Ep. 32 – “It’s Just a Rental”
Officers are wrapping up a traffic stop on the side of the road, lights on and everything clearly marked…
…and he blows by at 63 in a 40 right past them.
“It’s a rental… from my friend.” is the excuse.
No proof of insurance, registration had to get texted over and when asked what happens if you crash… not much of an idea.
Quick reminder: under Florida law you need valid insurance and proper registration when you’re driving; no matter who handed you the keys.
And don’t forget the Move Over Law now applies to any stopped vehicle on the side of the road. Move over a lane or slow down. It’s there to protect everyone out there.
Tickets issued for the speed and no insurance.
Rented car. No plan. Real citationsK9 Appie - Courage Under FireFtLauderdalePD2026-04-23 | K9 Appie responded to a burglary call that quickly escalated when a suspect attempted to flee.
As officers closed in, Appie was deployed to apprehend him moving in without hesitation. In that moment, the suspect opened fire, striking Appie in the line of duty.
What followed was an intense manhunt. A full SWAT callout was initiated, and with air support overhead, officers tracked the suspect as he ran through multiple yards, jumping fences in an attempt to get away. As SWAT moved into position, K9 teams were deployed and officers ultimately took him into custody as he attempted to flee.
Appie was rushed to the hospital, where he made it through surgery and is now on the road to recovery.
We couldn’t be more proud of our K-9 hero. He ran toward danger so others didn’t have to. Now we stand with him the same way he’s always stood with us.He ran toward danger so others didn’t have to.FtLauderdalePD2026-04-22 | The love and support from this community has meant everything and we know Appie feels it too. Appie made it through surgery today and is on the road to recovery. We could not be more proud of our K-9 hero.
He ran toward danger so others didn’t have to. Now we show up for him the same way he always showed up for us. Updates to follow.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 31 – “What’s Revving?”FtLauderdalePD2026-04-21 | Traffic Tuesday Ep. 31 – “What’s Revving?”
“What’s revving?” …not really how that works.
New-to-him Corvette on Broward Blvd—revving, popping, with tint so dark you can’t see in… including the windshield.
Dark tint that blocks visibility and modified exhaust setups that create excessive noise aren’t just a look—they’re violations.
Bought it from a friend… and kept every issue that came with it.
Citations issued across the board.Traffic Tuesday Ep. 30 – Glam On The GoFtLauderdalePD2026-04-14 | Traffic Tuesday Ep. 30 – Glam On The Go
Full glam session while driving down Broward Blvd. Mirror up, lights in her eyes, blending like the lane lines will handle themselves. Looking in the mirror, around the car, everywhere… except the road.
April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and Florida law requires drivers to operate with proper attention to the road. Doing your makeup at speed doesn’t exactly qualify.
All it takes is one second. Someone running out from the downtown entertainment district and you’re still mid-blend.