South Miami Police gave residents a front-row seat to their K-9 unit's capabilities earlier in July, staging a live demonstration with K-9 Officer Ace and his handler, Officer Charles "Charlie" Morejon, at Jean Willis Park.

The event featured three distinct exercises: a decoy apprehension inside the park's pavilion, a controlled apprehension outdoors, and an explosive odor detection drill. The department said attendees experienced the precision and teamwork that go into K-9 operations, which play a daily role in protecting South Miami.

The 0.7-acre park at 7220 SW 61st Ct. sits directly next to South Miami Police headquarters, making it a convenient venue for the kind of hands-on community event where residents can watch a trained police dog work without barriers. The park features a gazebo and picnic benches, and its proximity to the station meant Morejon and Ace could move between training scenarios quickly during the demonstration.

The department shared video of the exercises on X and Instagram on Thursday, July 30, describing the demonstration as a way to highlight the K-9 unit's role in city safety. The Instagram reel drew 57 likes and two comments within a day of posting.

https://www.instagram.com/reels/DbbDcb8FYSx/

South Miami Police did not specify the exact date of the demonstration beyond "earlier this month," and the department has not announced plans for a follow-up event. Residents who want to learn more about the K-9 unit or other community programs can reach the department's non-emergency line at (305) 663-6301.