A Miami Police officer is facing charges after allegedly fabricating a traffic ticket for his ex-girlfriend, the Miami-Dade State’s Attorney’s Office announced Thursday.
Officer Zamir Vargas Valerio, 38, is charged with official misconduct, a third-degree crime, as well as offences against computer users, computer systems, computer networks, and electronic devices.
The victim’s mother noticed the ticket, which was initially thought to be a mistake because the woman was stationed overseas at the time, according to the SAO.
The victim called the Miami-Dade Clerk of Courts, who confirmed that the ticket was valid, therefore she went to the City of Miami Police Department.
The Internal Affairs Division investigated further and concluded that Valerio allegedly exploited another officer’s computer access password to issue the fake traffic citation, according to the statement.
“Officer Valerio allegedly used criminal justice resources of a major police department in what may be seen as an attempt to reconnect with a former girlfriend,” State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle stated. “This is not only beyond normal comprehension, but it is also a violation of the law.”
Valerio was booked into jail on Thursday, and according to records, his bond was set at $10,000.
“The actions of one person do not reflect the beliefs and dedication of the great majority of the men and women who proudly serve this community every day. As a result, when any officer compromises the badge and the public’s trust, we must take severe action,” stated Miami Police Chief Manuel A. Morales. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to maintaining the public’s confidence and ensuring that the Miami Police Department reflects the very best of public service.”
In August 2022, Vargas Valerio was arrested and charged with reportedly strangling a woman in front of her child at a Davie house.