A deputy from the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office was taken into custody over the weekend, facing charges of felony and misdemeanor battery following an incident involving his wife. As reported by Local 10 News, Deputy Anthony Zayas, 39, allegedly engaged in a physical altercation with his wife as they left Schnebly Redland's Winery & Brewery in their Tesla.
The argument between Zayas and his wife purportedly escalated, leading Zayas to reportedly punch and slap his wife multiple times in the face. The victim attempted to quickly get out of the car, at which time Zayas allegedly pushed her out, "causing her to violently hit the ground," according to the arrest report. This information comes directly from the Local 10 News release.
Following the incident, the victim called for police assistance. She was later transported to Baptist Health Homestead Hospital by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue for her injuries. Zayas, in the meanwhile, invoked his right to not speak to law enforcement officials without an attorney present. He was subsequently arrested and booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, only to bond out of jail later on.
The office's stance on the matter was made clear by Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz, who stated, "I am angered and deeply disappointed by the arrest of one of my deputies for domestic violence." She further emphasized, "There is absolutely no place in this agency, or in our profession, for individuals who engage to such behavior," as reported by NBC6. Zayas has since been directed to maintain distance from the victim, a court order stemming from his charges related to domestic violence.
The response from Sheriff Cordero-Stutz moves past mere disappointment, extending into a realm of solidarity and support. "Law enforcement officers must be examples of integrity, respect, and accountability — both in uniform and in their personal lives. To the victims of domestic violence, I am fully committed to standing with you and supporting you," she declared. Despite efforts, NBC6 reports that they have yet to receive a statement from Zayas' attorney.
