Briefing Room

Civilian of the Year

Page of Honor

Special recognition was given to three police officers for their bravery in 2003. Receiving the police department’s Medal of Honor was Detective Joel Winfrey. Receiving the Medal of Valor was Detective Jack DiCristafalo and K-9 Officer Ian Sklar. After reading the Citations for these officers it was no surprise when Detectives Winfrey & DiCristafalo and K-9 Officer Sklar were named as the 2003 Fort Lauderdale Police Officers of the Year.

On March 12, 2003, you responded to Detective Morrow’s call for assistance in apprehending an armed robbery suspect. The previous evening, the suspect was positively identified as robbing a woman at gunpoint. Further investigation revealed the suspect had fled from felony parole in the State of New Jersey.

A BOLO was issued and Detective Winfrey responded to the area and observed the suspect fleeing into the Lauderdale Manors area. As Det. Winfrey attempted to stop him, the suspect abandoned his bicycle and fired one shot at Det. Winfrey, before fleeing on foot into the neighborhood.

A perimeter was established and Officer Sklar and his canine partner responded to track the suspect. Detectives Winfrey and DiCristafalo accompanied Officer Sklar as his backup. The suspect was tracked to the backyard of an unoccupied residence. As the yard was searched a gunshot rang out and Det. Winfrey fell to the ground, struck in the back by a bullet. As the officers took cover the suspect continued to fire. Officer Sklar and Det. DiCristafalo returned fire striking the suspect. Officer Sklar’s canine partner made contact with the suspect. Det. Winfrey’s life was saved by his bulletproof vest. Det. Winfrey got to his feet and the three officers approached the suspect. As Officer Sklar disengaged his canine partner, the suspect raised his gun in your direction. At this time it was necessary for the three of you to return fire until the suspect was no longer a threat to you or the community.

In the face of an armed and dangerous felon, you responded with courage and proper police tactics, neutralizing the threat to you and the citizens you are sworn to protect. You did this despite the fact a fellow officer and been shot by the suspect. You are all to be commended on an outstanding job.

Bruce Roberts
Chief of Police

Visit the Page of Honor. This site pays tribute to the members of the Fort Lauderdale Police Department who have made the supreme sacrifice for our community.

Briefing Room

Civilian of the Year

Page of Honor