The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office recently held a deeply moving tribute to Deputy Damian Colon, whose service was tragically shortened due to being a victim of a heinous act of violence. The send-off, characterized by its heartfelt and emotional nature, marked the retirement of Deputy Colon on Monday, following an incident that had left him on the brink of death three years prior. He served with the force for two decades, functioning in various task forces such as Crime and Suppression and most recently, the Illegal Dumping Unit. Securing the safety and well-being of the public had been the cornerstone of his career.
In a poignant, intimate moment during his official retirement, tears streamed down Deputy Colon’s face as he took in the enormity of the situation and pondered over his dedicated service. He expressed his sincere appreciation for the stalwart support he has received throughout his challenging journey. ‘This journey has not been an easy one but I remain committed to improve and it’s exhilarating to see the strong support that has been extended to me.’
An event that shook his life and almost ended his career was a brutal assault by his former girlfriend while he was en route to office back in 2022. After grueling years of intensive rehabilitation and an unwavering spirit of determination, Damian Colon has come back from the edge.
Amid the gathering, Damian’s elder brother, who also serves as a police officer, underscored that the day’s celebration was not only about recognizing a career achievement, but also about celebrating life’s victory. He reflected on the severity of Damian’s near-death experience, emphasizing his tenacious willpower that pulled him back from the abyss.
He stated, ‘It’s important to remember how close Damian came to losing his life. His survival is testament to his relentless tenacity and refusal to surrender. His strength and resilience have been truly commendable.’
The sheriffs at the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office will hold the memories of Deputy Colon closely, in particular his inspiring strength, indomitable spirit and positive outlook in the face of adversity. The somber day concluded with a moving ritual, where fellow deputies aided Deputy Colon in signing off one last time.
Furthermore, the department seized the opportunity of the solemn ceremony to vocalize a vital message regarding domestic abuse. They stressed on the importance of seeking help and assured that ample resources were available for aid. Violence in intimate relationships is a matter of grave concern and seeking help can be a vital step towards safety.
In relation to the incident, Deputy Colon’s ex-girlfriend is currently incarcerated and awaiting trial. She faces multiple serious charges, including stalking and attempted first-degree murder.