N Miami police officer under investigation for sex with minor www.privateofficer.com
Officer Willie Walden, 48, who patrolled North Miami High School, North Miami Middle School and several local elementary schools, was relieved of duty on Nov. 10.
A 23-year employee of North Miami, Walden joined the police force in 2002 and quickly became well known in the community for his involvement in PAL.
In January, North Miami named Walden officer of the month for his work with PAL. He was credited for securing the funds to house the program in it’s own facility.
The center is a partnership between PAL and a fitness-training company. It also offers yoga and personal training for a fee. PAL gets a percentage of the proceeds.
“He’s a very well respected individual both inside and outside of the department,” Cuevas said.
Walden declined to comment.
Walden and another officer helped oversee about 600 students annually through PAL and its after-school activities.
Working with kids is “primarily what they do everyday,” said police spokesman Neal Cuevas.
The program includes youth sports, entrepreneurial development and tutoring. In the past, both officers have traveled with students to compete in out-of-town competitions.
Walden has been relieved of duty with pay pending the outcome of the police investigation.
North Miami police did not release details of the allegation, but Cuevas said the student is a minor.
“The police department received the complaint, and we’re still waiting for the outcome of the investigation,” Cuevas said.
Source:www.miamiherald.com
